igneous
Granite
Phaneritic Felsic Igneous Rock (composed primarily of Quartz, Feldspar, and Mica)
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale. Color: Tan, brown, and grey with black specks. Luster: Vitreous to dull. Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained visible crystals). Cleavage: Imperfect. Specific Gravity: 2.63-2.75.
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Tan, brown, and grey with black specks
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
Identified More igneous →
Explore Granite in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale. Color: Tan, brown, and grey with black specks. Luster: Vitreous to dull. Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained visible crystals). Cleavage: Imperfect. Specific Gravity: 2.63-2.75.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the slow crystallization of magma below the Earth's surface (intrusive). The coarse grains indicate it cooled over a long period. Generally associated with continental crust formation across billions of years of geological history.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stones, curbing, and monuments due to its durability and aesthetic appeal.
Geological facts
Granite is one of the most common rocks on the Earth's surface and makes up a large portion of the continental crust. The word 'granite' comes from the Latin 'granum', meaning a grain, in reference to its coarse-grained structure.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its hard, granular texture and salt-and-pepper appearance. It will not be scratched by a steel knife. Commonly found in plutons and mountain ranges worldwide.
