igneous
Granite
Phaneritic Plutonic Felsic Rock (SiO2 > 69%)
Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs scale); Color: Salt and pepper (white/pink/gray/black); Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained, visible crystals); Specific gravity: 2.63 - 2.75
- Hardness
- 6-7 (Mohs scale)
- Color
- Salt and pepper (white/pink/gray/black)
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs scale); Color: Salt and pepper (white/pink/gray/black); Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained, visible crystals); Specific gravity: 2.63 - 2.75
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow subterranean cooling of silica-rich magma (intrusive). They are primarily found in the continental crust and often date back millions to billions of years.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stones, curbing, monuments, and as crushed aggregate for infrastructure.
Geological facts
Granite is one of the hardest substances in the world, second only to diamonds. It makes up a large part of the continental crust and forms the core of many mountain ranges like the Sierra Nevada.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its interlocking 'salt and pepper' crystalline texture consisting of quartz (translucent), feldspar (opaque white/pink), and mica (black flakes); found globally in outcrop formations.
