igneous
Granite
Felsic intrusive igneous rock
Hardness of 6 on the Mohs scale, colors typically range from pink to gray depending on its chemistry, luster is dull to vitreous, crystal structure is phaneritic (coarse-grained visible crystals), specific gravity is approximately 2.65 to 2.75.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 6 on the Mohs scale, colors typically range from pink to gray depending on its chemistry, luster is dull to vitreous, crystal structure is phaneritic (coarse-grained visible crystals), specific gravity is approximately 2.65 to 2.75.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow crystallization of magma below the Earth's surface over millions of years, commonly found in continental crust.
Uses & applications
Widely used in construction, architectural buildings, countertops, monuments, and paving stones.
Geological facts
Granite is the most common rock of the Earth's continental crust and forms the core of many major mountain ranges.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified in the field by its interlocking, visible grains of quartz, feldspar, and dark minerals like biotite mica. Found globally in shield areas and mountainous regions.
