igneous
Granite
Felsic intrusive igneous rock
Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs scale), Color: Pinkish-red (potassium feldspar) with gray and black specks, Luster: Dull to vitreous, Crystal structure: Phaneritic (visible crystals).
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 (Mohs scale), Color: Pinkish-red (potassium feldspar) with gray and black specks, Luster: Dull to vitreous, Crystal structure: Phaneritic (visible crystals).
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow cooling of silica-rich magma deep underground. It can be millions to billions of years old and is a major component of continental crust.
Uses & applications
Construction, countertops, monuments, landscaping, and aggregate for roads.
Geological facts
Granite is one of the hardest and most common rocks on Earth. It is composed primarily of quartz, feldspar, and mica.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its granular texture and 'salt and pepper' appearance with varying shades of pink or white. Extremely common in mountain ranges and glacial deposits.
