igneous
Granite
Phaneritic Plutonic Igneous Rock (Rich in SiO2)
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale. Color: Salt-and-pepper (white, gray, pink, black). Luster: Dull to vitreous. Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained visible crystals). No cleavage; fractures irregularly.
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Salt-and-pepper (white, gray, pink, black)
- Luster
- Dull to vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale. Color: Salt-and-pepper (white, gray, pink, black). Luster: Dull to vitreous. Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained visible crystals). No cleavage; fractures irregularly.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface. High in silica and alkali metals. Can be found in various geological ages, often forming the cores of mountain ranges.
Uses & applications
Used extensively in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stones, curbing, and monuments due to its durability and resistance to weathering.
Geological facts
Granite makes up a large portion of the Earth's continental crust. It is one of the hardest substances in the world, second only to diamonds and certain other gemstones.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its interlocking 'mosaic' of visible mineral grains, usually including quartz (glassy), feldspar (opaque white/pink), and mica (black flakes). Found in major batholiths globally.
