igneous
Granite
Felsic intrusive igneous rock
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale. Color: Varies widely (pink, white, gray, speckled with dark minerals). Luster: Vitreous to dull. Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained, visible interlocking crystals). Cleavage: None distinct as a rock, but individual mineral components like feldspar have cleavage.…
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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 on Mohs scale. Color: Varies widely (pink, white, gray, speckled with dark minerals). Luster: Vitreous to dull. Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained, visible interlocking crystals). Cleavage: None distinct as a rock, but individual mineral components like feldspar have cleavage. Specific Gravity: 2.65 - 2.75.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow cooling and crystallization of magma rich in silica and alkali metal oxides beneath the Earth's surface over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Widely used in construction, architectural buildings, monuments, countertops, paving stones, and landscaping.
Geological facts
Granite is the most common intrusive rock of Earth's continental crust and is famous for its durability and resistance to weathering.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its characteristic speckled appearance featuring visible grains of quartz, feldspar, and dark minerals like biotite mica. Found abundantly in continental shields and mountain ranges worldwide.
