igneous
Granite
Granite; primarily quartz, feldspar, and mica
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness about 6–7 Mohs; coarse-grained, light gray, granular texture with black mica and scattered pale feldspar, displaying glassy to pearly mineral lusters. Interlocking crystals lack cleavage as a rock, though feldspar and mica have cleavage.
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Physical properties
Hardness about 6–7 Mohs; coarse-grained, light gray, granular texture with black mica and scattered pale feldspar, displaying glassy to pearly mineral lusters. Interlocking crystals lack cleavage as a rock, though feldspar and mica have cleavage.
Formation & geological history
Intrusive felsic igneous rock formed by slow cooling of silica-rich magma deep in the crust, commonly during Precambrian to Phanerozoic mountain-building events.
Uses & applications
Widely used for countertops, monuments, building stone, paving, and crushed aggregate; attractive polished varieties are valued decoratively.
Geological facts
Its visible grains indicate slow underground crystallization; the small orange-white fragment may be weathered feldspar or quartz-bearing debris on the surface.
Field identification & locations
Identify it by coarse interlocking grains, abundant light feldspar/quartz, and dark mica; common worldwide in continental mountain belts. A fresh surface and acid test help distinguish it from similar rocks.
