igneous
Granite
Phaneritic Plutonic Felsic Rock
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pink, white, gray with black specks; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained); Specific gravity: 2.63 to 2.75
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Pink, white, gray with black specks
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pink, white, gray with black specks; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained); Specific gravity: 2.63 to 2.75
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface. Largely composed of quartz, feldspar, and mica. It is a major component of continental crust, often dating back hundreds of millions to billions of years.
Uses & applications
Widely used for countertops, floor tiles, paving stone, curbing, monuments, and as crushed stone for road construction and concrete aggregate.
Geological facts
Granite is one of the hardest and most durable natural stones, which is why it has been used since ancient Egypt for monuments and pyramids. This specimen features a prominent xenolith or dark mineral cluster, likely hornblende or biotite.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its visible interlocking crystals of quartz (clear/gray), feldspar (pink/white), and mica or amphibole (black). Commonly found in mountainous regions or areas where erosion has exposed batholiths.
