igneous
Granite
Felsic intrusive igneous rock
Hardness: 6-7 on the Mohs scale; Color: Pinkish-white with dark mineral specks; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Crystal structure: Phanerozoic coarse-grained crystalline texture; Specific gravity: 2.65-2.75
- Hardness
- 6-7 on the Mohs scale
- Color
- Pinkish-white with dark mineral specks
- Luster
- Dull to vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on the Mohs scale; Color: Pinkish-white with dark mineral specks; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Crystal structure: Phanerozoic coarse-grained crystalline texture; Specific gravity: 2.65-2.75
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow crystallization of magma below the Earth's surface over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Used extensively in construction, architectural building stone, countertops, monuments, and curbing.
Geological facts
Granite is the most common igneous rock in the Earth's continental crust and is exceptionally durable against weathering.
Field identification & locations
Readily identified by its distinct interlocking mineral crystals of quartz, feldspar, and dark mica or amphibole.
