igneous
Granite
Felsic intrusive igneous rock
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 6 on the Mohs scale, pink to gray or white color, granular phaneritic luster, composed mainly of quartz, alkali feldspar, and plagioclase.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 6 on the Mohs scale, pink to gray or white color, granular phaneritic luster, composed mainly of quartz, alkali feldspar, and plagioclase.
Formation & geological history
Forms from the slow cooling of silica-rich magma deep underground, typically over millions of years in continental crustal settings.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in construction, monument building, countertops, and architectural facing stone.
Geological facts
Granite is the most common plutonic rock on Earth and forms the major framework of many continental mountain ranges.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its visibly interlocking mineral crystals of quartz, feldspar, and dark biotite mica; found worldwide in continental shields.
