igneous
Granite
Phaneritic Plutonic Rock (Granite)
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Salt and pepper (white/tan with black flecks); Luster: Dull to vitreous; Structure: Phaneritic/Crystalline; Cleavage: None (individual minerals have cleavage); SG: 2.6-2.7
- Hardness
- 6-7 Mohs
- Color
- Salt and pepper (white/tan with black flecks)
- Luster
- Dull to vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Salt and pepper (white/tan with black flecks); Luster: Dull to vitreous; Structure: Phaneritic/Crystalline; Cleavage: None (individual minerals have cleavage); SG: 2.6-2.7
Formation & geological history
Formed through the slow cooling and crystallization of magma deep beneath the Earth's surface (plutonic). Found in continental crust plates worldwide.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stones, curbing, and monuments due to its durability.
Geological facts
Granite makes up a large portion of the Earth's continental crust. Mount Rushmore is carved into a massive granite batholith in South Dakota.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its interlocking 'salt and pepper' crystalline texture where quartz, feldspar, and mica minerals are visible to the naked eye. Found in almost all mountainous regions.
