igneous
Granite
Granite (composed primarily of Quartz, Feldspar, and Mica)
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Salt and pepper (pink, white, gray, and black); Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal Structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained); Specific Gravity: 2.63 to 2.75
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Salt and pepper (pink, white, gray, and black)
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Salt and pepper (pink, white, gray, and black); Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal Structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained); Specific Gravity: 2.63 to 2.75
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface. This specimen appears to be water-worn, likely found in a riverbed or glacial deposit. Typical age ranges from millions to billions of years old depending on the location of the pluton.
Uses & applications
Used extensively in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stones, and monuments. Also crushed for use as aggregate in road building and concrete.
Geological facts
Granite is the most common igneous rock found in Earth's continental crust. El Capitan in Yosemite National Park is a famous massive granite monolith.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its visible interlocking crystals of different colors. It is commonly found in mountainous regions or glacial till. For collectors, look for high quartz content or unique pink orthoclase crystals.
