igneous
Granite
Phaneritic plutonic rock composed of Quartz, Feldspar, and Mica
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale. Color: Salt-and-pepper (white, gray, black, pink). Luster: Vitreous to dull. Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained). Cleavage: Varies by mineral constituent. Specific gravity: 2.63 to 2.75.
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Salt-and-pepper (white, gray, black, pink)
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale. Color: Salt-and-pepper (white, gray, black, pink). Luster: Vitreous to dull. Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained). Cleavage: Varies by mineral constituent. Specific gravity: 2.63 to 2.75.
Formation & geological history
Formed by the slow crystallization of silica-rich magma below the Earth's surface. It is a coarse-grained, intrusive igneous rock that can be hundreds of millions of years old, often associated with continental crust formation.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stones, curbing, and monuments. It is also used as crushed stone for road base and aggregate.
Geological facts
Granite is one of the hardest substances in the world and makes up a large portion of the Earth's continental crust. Several famous landmarks, like Mount Rushmore, are carved directly into granite.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its interlocking visible crystals. Look for translucent quartz, opaque white or pink feldspar, and black specks of biotite or hornblende. It is found in massive batholiths and mountain ranges globally.
