igneous
Granite
Granite (Alkali-feldspar, Quartz, and Plagioclase composition)
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale. Color: Mottled grey, pink, and white. Luster: Vitreous to dull. Structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained). Cleavage: Imperfect/Absent in rock mass. Specific Gravity: 2.63 to 2.75.
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Mottled grey, pink, and white
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale. Color: Mottled grey, pink, and white. Luster: Vitreous to dull. Structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained). Cleavage: Imperfect/Absent in rock mass. Specific Gravity: 2.63 to 2.75.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the slow crystallization of magma below the Earth's surface (intrusive). Common across all geological ages, especially in continental crust and mountain-building regions.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in construction (countertops, flooring), monuments, curbing, and as crushed stone for road base and aggregate.
Geological facts
Granite is the primary rock of the Earth's continental crust. Mount Rushmore is carved into a granite batholith, and Yosemite's Half Dome is a massive granite monolith.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its 'salt and pepper' appearance and visible interlocking crystals of quartz and feldspar. Found globally in continental shields and mountain belts. For collectors, look for unique textures like pegmatites or rare mineral inclusions.
