
igneous
Granite
Intrusive Igneous Rock
Hardness of 6 on the Mohs scale, colors ranging from pink to gray with speckled appearance, vitreous to dull luster, phaneritic crystal structure with visible interlocking mineral grains, specific gravity around 2.65 to 2.75.
Identified More igneous →
Explore Granite in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness of 6 on the Mohs scale, colors ranging from pink to gray with speckled appearance, vitreous to dull luster, phaneritic crystal structure with visible interlocking mineral grains, specific gravity around 2.65 to 2.75.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow crystallization of magma below the Earth's surface over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Commonly used in construction, countertops, monuments, and architectural facings.
Geological facts
Granite is the most common rock of the Earth's continental crust and is extremely durable against weathering.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified in the field by its distinct speckled pink, white, and black interlocking mineral grains (quartz, feldspar, and biotite mica). Found worldwide in continental shields and mountain ranges.