igneous
Granite
Felsic intrusive igneous rock
Hardness: 6 on the Mohs scale. Color: Typically grey, pink, or white with dark mineral specks. Luster: Dull to vitreous. Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained, visible crystals). Cleavage: None distinct. Specific gravity: 2.65 to 2.75.
- Hardness
- 6 on the Mohs scale
- Color
- Typically grey, pink, or white with dark mineral specks
- Luster
- Dull to vitreous
Identified More igneous →
Explore Granite in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 6 on the Mohs scale. Color: Typically grey, pink, or white with dark mineral specks. Luster: Dull to vitreous. Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained, visible crystals). Cleavage: None distinct. Specific gravity: 2.65 to 2.75.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow crystallization of magma below the Earth's surface over millions of years, typically found in continental crusts.
Uses & applications
Widely used in construction, monuments, flooring, countertops, and decorative aggregate.
Geological facts
Granite is the most common intrusive rock in the Earth's continental crust and is exceptionally resistant to weathering.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its interlocking, visible mineral grains of quartz, feldspar, and mica. Found worldwide in major mountain ranges and shields.
