igneous
Granite
Felsic intrusive igneous rock
Hardness: 6 on Mohs scale. Color: Typically pink, white, gray, or red with dark mineral speckles. Luster: Vitreous to dull. Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained, visible crystals). Cleavage: None (fractures unevenly). Specific gravity: 2.65 to 2.75.
- Hardness
- 6 on Mohs scale
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6 on Mohs scale. Color: Typically pink, white, gray, or red with dark mineral speckles. Luster: Vitreous to dull. Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained, visible crystals). Cleavage: None (fractures unevenly). Specific gravity: 2.65 to 2.75.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow cooling and crystallization of magma rich in silica and alkali feldspar beneath the Earth's surface. Can range from Precambrian to recent geological ages.
Uses & applications
Widely used in construction, architectural building facades, monuments, countertops, paving stones, and interior tiles.
Geological facts
Granite forms the core of many major mountain ranges and is one of the most abundant rocks in the Earth's continental crust. It is exceptionally durable against weathering.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its speckled pink, white, and black appearance with visible interlocking mineral grains (quartz, feldspar, mica). Found globally in continental shields and intrusive plutons.
