igneous
Granite
Phaneritic plutonic rock (SiO2 rich)
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Gray, pink, and tan with black flecks; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Structure: Phaneritic (visible crystals); Composition: Quartz, Feldspar, and Mica/Amphibole.
- Hardness
- 6-7 Mohs
- Color
- Gray, pink, and tan with black flecks
- Luster
- Dull to vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Gray, pink, and tan with black flecks; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Structure: Phaneritic (visible crystals); Composition: Quartz, Feldspar, and Mica/Amphibole.
Formation & geological history
Formed by the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface. Given the coordinates in the Fars Province, Iran, this may originate from Sanandaj-Sirjan zone plutonic complexes.
Uses & applications
Construction, countertops, monuments, and decorative gravel.
Geological facts
Granite is one of the hardest types of rock and makes up much of the continental crust. The black spots are typically biotite or hornblende minerals.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its salt-and-pepper appearance and visible individual mineral grains. Common in mountainous regions with exposed basement rock.
