igneous
Granite
Felsic intrusive igneous rock
Hardness of 6 on the Mohs scale. Colors range from pink to gray depending on its chemistry. Luster is typically dull to vitreous. It has a phaneritic (coarse-grained) crystal structure. Specific gravity is approximately 2.65 to 2.75.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 6 on the Mohs scale. Colors range from pink to gray depending on its chemistry. Luster is typically dull to vitreous. It has a phaneritic (coarse-grained) crystal structure. Specific gravity is approximately 2.65 to 2.75.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow cooling of magma rich in silica and alkali metal oxides that is trapped deep beneath the Earth's surface, typically originating during various geological eras from Precambrian to Cenozoic.
Uses & applications
Widely used in construction, buildings, bridges, paving, monuments, and interior design such as countertops and floor tiles.
Geological facts
Granite forms the core of many major mountain ranges and is one of the most abundant rocks in the continental crust of the Earth.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its visible interlocking crystals of quartz, feldspar, and mica. Found globally in continental shields and intrusive mountain roots.
