igneous
Granite
Granite
Hardness: 6-7 on the Mohs scale. Color: Typically pink, white, grey, or black speckled. Luster: Vitreous to dull. Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained, visible interlocking mineral crystals). Specific gravity: 2.65-2.75.
- Hardness
- 6-7 on the Mohs scale
- Color
- Typically pink, white, grey, or black speckled
- 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 the Mohs scale. Color: Typically pink, white, grey, or black speckled. Luster: Vitreous to dull. Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained, visible interlocking mineral crystals). Specific gravity: 2.65-2.75.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface over millions of years. Common in continental crusts.
Uses & applications
Widely used in construction, monuments, flooring, countertops, and decorative stone.
Geological facts
Granite is the most common intrusive igneous rock on Earth and forms the core of many major mountain ranges.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its distinctive speckled appearance caused by quartz, feldspar, and dark micas or amphiboles. Found globally in shield areas and mountainous regions.
