igneous
Granite
Intrusive igneous rock composed mainly of quartz, alkali feldspar, and plagioclase
Hardness: 6-7 on the Mohs scale; Color: Pink, white, gray, or black speckled; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained, visible crystals); Specific gravity: 2.65-2.75
- Hardness
- 6-7 on the Mohs scale
- Color
- Pink, white, gray, or black speckled
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on the Mohs scale; Color: Pink, white, gray, or black speckled; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained, visible crystals); Specific gravity: 2.65-2.75
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow cooling of magma rich in silica and alkali metal oxides beneath the Earth's surface, typically over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Widely used in construction for dimension stone, countertops, monuments, floor tiles, and curbing.
Geological facts
Granite is the most common plutonic rock of Earth's crust and forms the core of many major mountain ranges.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its interlocking, visible mineral grains of quartz, feldspar, and mica. Found globally in continental shields and mountain belts.
