igneous
Granite
Intrusive igneous rock
Hardness: 6-7 on the Mohs scale. Color: Varies widely (white, gray, pink, black) depending on mineral composition. Luster: Vitreous to dull. Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained, visible crystals). Specific gravity: 2.65 - 2.75.
- Hardness
- 6-7 on the 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 the Mohs scale. Color: Varies widely (white, gray, pink, black) depending on mineral composition. Luster: Vitreous to dull. Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained, visible crystals). Specific gravity: 2.65 - 2.75.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface over millions of years. Common in continental crust.
Uses & applications
Widely used in construction, architectural buildings, countertops, monuments, and paving stones.
Geological facts
Granite is the most common intrusive rock in Earth's continental crust and is frequently found in major mountain ranges.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its interlocking, visible grains of quartz, feldspar, and dark minerals like biotite mica. Found globally in shields and orogenic belts.
