igneous
Granite
Felsic Plutonic Rock (primarily SiO2, Al2O3, K2O, Na2O)
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: White, gray, or pink with dark specks; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (medium to coarse-grained), holocrystalline; Cleavage: None (individual crystals like feldspar show cleavage, but rock breaks irregularly); Specific Gravity: 2.63 - 2.75
- Hardness
- 6-7 Mohs
- Color
- White, gray, or pink with dark specks
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: White, gray, or pink with dark specks; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (medium to coarse-grained), holocrystalline; Cleavage: None (individual crystals like feldspar show cleavage, but rock breaks irregularly); Specific Gravity: 2.63 - 2.75
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface. It is a plutonic rock found in continental crust. Ages range from the Archean Eon to relatively recent Cenozoic formations.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stones, and memorial monuments due to its durability and aesthetic appeal. Also used as crushed stone in road base.
Geological facts
Granite makes up much of the Earth's continental crust. Yosemite National Park's famous Half Dome and El Capitan are massive granite monoliths. It is one of the hardest and most resistant rocks used by humans since ancient Egypt.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its 'salt and pepper' appearance and visible interlocked crystals of quartz (clear/gray), feldspar (white/pink), and mica (black/shiny). Common in mountain ranges and shielded areas. Collectors look for specific mineral inclusions or unique coloration.
