igneous
Granite
Granite (Mainly Quartz, Alkali Feldspar, and Plagioclase)
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Salt and pepper (gray, white, pink, black); Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained); Specific Gravity: 2.63 to 2.75
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Salt and pepper (gray, white, pink, black)
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Salt and pepper (gray, white, pink, black); Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained); Specific Gravity: 2.63 to 2.75
Formation & geological history
Formed through the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface (intrusive). Geological age can range from Precambrian to Cenozoic depending on the specific pluton.
Uses & applications
Used widely in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stones, curbing, monuments, and as aggregate in road building.
Geological facts
Granite makes up a large portion of the Earth's continental crust. Mount Rushmore is carved into a massive granite batholith in the Black Hills of South Dakota.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its interlocking granular texture where individual mineral grains are visible to the naked eye. Commonly found in mountainous regions and continental shields. It is highly resistant to weathering.
