igneous
Granite
Felsic intrusive igneous rock
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: typically light gray, pink, or white with dark speckles; Luster: dull to vitreous; Crystal structure: phaneritic (coarse-grained, visible crystals); Specific gravity: 2.65-2.75
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- typically light gray, pink, or white with dark speckles
- Luster
- dull to vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: typically light gray, pink, or white with dark speckles; Luster: dull to vitreous; Crystal structure: phaneritic (coarse-grained, visible crystals); Specific gravity: 2.65-2.75
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow cooling of silica-rich magma beneath the Earth's surface over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Widely used in construction, countertops, monuments, paving stones, and architectural facing.
Geological facts
Granite forms the baseline of many continental landmasses and is one of the most durable natural stones on Earth.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified in the field by its interlocking, visible grains of quartz, feldspar, and mica. Found worldwide in continental shields and mountain roots.
