igneous
Granite
Felsic intrusive igneous rock
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 6 on the Mohs scale, with a pink, white, or gray color and a phaneritic (coarse-grained) texture. It exhibits a dull to vitreous luster and contains interlocked quartz, alkali feldspar, and plagioclase crystals.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 6 on the Mohs scale, with a pink, white, or gray color and a phaneritic (coarse-grained) texture. It exhibits a dull to vitreous luster and contains interlocked quartz, alkali feldspar, and plagioclase crystals.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the slow, subterranean cooling of silica-rich magma deep within the Earth's continental crust over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Widely used in construction for dimension stone, architectural facings, floor tiles, countertops, and monumental memorials.
Geological facts
Granite makes up a major component of the Earth's continental crust and is rarely found outside of Earth. Some of the oldest known rock formations on the planet are granitic gneisses.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified in the field by its visible interlocking mineral grains of quartz and feldspar, often dotted with dark micas. It is globally abundant in mountainous regions and shield areas.
