igneous
Granite
Intrusive Igneous Rock
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Typically gray, pink, or white with dark speckles; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained, visible interlocking crystals of quartz, feldspar, and mica); Specific gravity: 2.65-2.75
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Typically gray, pink, or white with dark speckles
- Luster
- Dull to vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Typically gray, pink, or white with dark speckles; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained, visible interlocking crystals of quartz, feldspar, and mica); Specific gravity: 2.65-2.75
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow cooling and solidification of magma deep beneath the Earth's surface over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Widely used in construction, architectural buildings, monuments, countertops, paving stones, and interior design.
Geological facts
Granite is the most common rock of the Earth's continental crust and is exceptionally durable against weathering.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its speckled, coarse-grained appearance containing visible crystals of quartz and feldspar. Found globally in continental shields and mountain ranges.
