igneous
Granite
Felsic intrusive igneous rock
Hardness: 6 on Mohs scale; Color: varies from pink to gray depending on mineral composition; Luster: dull to vitreous; Crystal structure: phaneritic, coarse-grained with visible interlocking mineral crystals; Specific gravity: 2.65 to 2.75
- Hardness
- 6 on Mohs scale
- Color
- varies from pink to gray depending on mineral composition
- Luster
- dull to vitreous
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 on Mohs scale; Color: varies from pink to gray depending on mineral composition; Luster: dull to vitreous; Crystal structure: phaneritic, coarse-grained with visible interlocking mineral crystals; Specific gravity: 2.65 to 2.75
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow cooling and crystallization of magma rich in silica and alkali aluminum silicates beneath the Earth's surface over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Widely used in construction for countertops, floor tiles, curbing, and monuments due to its extreme durability and aesthetic appeal.
Geological facts
Granite is the most common plutonic rock of Earth's crust, forming the core of many major mountain ranges.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its speckled, coarse-grained appearance consisting primarily of quartz, feldspar, and mica minerals. Found globally in continental shields and mountain roots.
