igneous
Granite
Granite (Felsic Plutonic Rock)
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale. Color: mottled pink, white, and grey with black specks. Luster: vitreous (glassy) to dull. Crystal structure: phaneritic (coarse-grained visible crystals). Cleavage: varies by mineral component (feldspar has distinct cleavage, quartz has none). Specific gravity: 2.63 to 2.75.
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- mottled pink, white, and grey with black specks
- Luster
- vitreous (glassy) to dull
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: 6-7 on Mohs scale. Color: mottled pink, white, and grey with black specks. Luster: vitreous (glassy) to dull. Crystal structure: phaneritic (coarse-grained visible crystals). Cleavage: varies by mineral component (feldspar has distinct cleavage, quartz has none). Specific gravity: 2.63 to 2.75.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow crystallization of magma below the Earth's surface (intrusive). Composed primarily of quartz, feldspar, and mica. This specimen likely formed during mountain-building events (orogenies) millions of years ago.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stones, and monuments. High demand in landscaping and as crushed stone for road base.
Geological facts
Granite makes up a large portion of the Earth's continental crust. Mount Rushmore is carved into a granite batholith. It is one of the hardest and most durable natural stones, which is why it has been used since ancient Egyptian times for architecture.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its coarse, interlocking crystalline texture where you can see different colored minerals (clear quartz, white/pink feldspar, black biotite). Found in continental massifs and mountain ranges worldwide.
