igneous
Granite
Granite
Hardness: 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale; Color: Pink, gray, white, or red with dark mineral specks; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained) with interlocking crystals; Cleavage: None (though individual minerals within it like feldspar have cleavage); Specific gravity: 2.63 to 2.75
- Hardness
- 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale
- Color
- Pink, gray, white, or red with dark mineral specks
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale; Color: Pink, gray, white, or red with dark mineral specks; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained) with interlocking crystals; Cleavage: None (though individual minerals within it like feldspar have cleavage); Specific gravity: 2.63 to 2.75
Formation & geological history
Formed by the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface. It is a plutonic rock that forms deep within the crust over millions of years, often found in the cores of mountain ranges.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in construction, flooring, kitchen countertops, monuments, curbing, and as crushed stone for road base. Also popular for decorative sculptures and gravestones due to its durability.
Geological facts
Granite is the most common igneous rock found on Earth's continents. The term 'Granite' comes from the Latin word 'granum,' meaning a grain, in reference to its coarse-grained structure. Mount Rushmore is carved into a granite batholith.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its coarse-grained texture where individual crystals of quartz (glassy), feldspar (opaque/pink/white), and mica (shiny flakes) are visible to the naked eye. It is found globally in continental crust.
