igneous
Granite
Phaneritic Felsic Igneous Rock (Granite)
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pinkish-tan with grey and black inclusions; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Crystal Structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained crystals easily visible to the naked eye); Specific gravity: 2.63 to 2.75 g/cm³.
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Pinkish-tan with grey and black inclusions
- Luster
- Dull to vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pinkish-tan with grey and black inclusions; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Crystal Structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained crystals easily visible to the naked eye); Specific gravity: 2.63 to 2.75 g/cm³.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface (intrusive). Most granites are associated with mountain-building events during the Precambrian and Paleozoic eras. It forms in batholiths and deep crustal plutons.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stones, and curbing. It is also used for cemetery monuments, bridges, and as a decorative stone in architecture due to its durability.
Geological facts
Granite makes up the majority of the Earth's continental crust. It is one of the hardest substances in the world, second only to diamonds. Mt. Rushmore is carved out of a granite batholith in the Black Hills of South Dakota.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its 'salt and pepper' appearance and visible interlocking crystals of quartz (grey/clear), feldspar (pink/white), and mica or amphibole (black). It is found globally in the hearts of mountain ranges.
