igneous
Granite
Phaneritic Felsic Intrusive Igneous Rock
Hardness of 6 on the Mohs scale, typically pink, white, grey, or black with a phaneritic (coarse-grained) texture. Composed mainly of quartz, alkali feldspar, and plagioclase, with minor micas and amphiboles. Specific gravity is approximately 2.65 to 2.75.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 6 on the Mohs scale, typically pink, white, grey, or black with a phaneritic (coarse-grained) texture. Composed mainly of quartz, alkali feldspar, and plagioclase, with minor micas and amphiboles. Specific gravity is approximately 2.65 to 2.75.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow cooling and solidification of magma rich in silica and alkali metal oxides deep underground, typically over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Widely used in construction for countertops, floor tiles, curbing, monuments, and building facades due to its high durability and resistance to weathering.
Geological facts
Granite is the most common plutonic rock of Earth's crust and forms the core of many major mountain ranges.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified in the field by its visible interlocking mineral grains of quartz, feldspar, and dark biotite mica. Found abundantly worldwide in continental shields and intrusive mountain roots.
