igneous
Granite
Granite
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale. Color: Mottled pink, gray, and white with dark flecks. Luster: Vitreous to dull. Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained) containing quartz, feldspar, and biotite mica. Specific Gravity: 2.63 to 2.75.
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Mottled pink, gray, and white with dark flecks
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale. Color: Mottled pink, gray, and white with dark flecks. Luster: Vitreous to dull. Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained) containing quartz, feldspar, and biotite mica. Specific Gravity: 2.63 to 2.75.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the slow cooling and crystallization of magma deep beneath the Earth's surface (plutonic). They are primarily Found in continental crust and date back billions of years or as recently as the Cenozoic era.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in construction as dimension stone, countertops, tiling, monuments, and as crushed stone for road base and concrete aggregate.
Geological facts
Granite is the most common rock in the Earth's continental crust. Mount Rushmore is carved into a massive granite batholith in the Black Hills of South Dakota.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its 'salt and pepper' appearance and interlocking visible crystals. It is found in mountain ranges and ancient shield areas like the Canadian Shield. For collectors, look for high-contrast mineral combinations.
