igneous
Granite
Coarse-grained felsic intrusive igneous rock; chiefly quartz, alkali feldspar, plagioclase, and mica/hornblende
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectTypically Mohs 6–7; pale gray, cream, and pink with dark speckles; granular texture and vitreous to dull luster. No dominant cleavage as a whole, though feldspars show cleavage; density is approximately 2.6–2.8 g/cm³.
Identified More igneous →
Explore Granite in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Typically Mohs 6–7; pale gray, cream, and pink with dark speckles; granular texture and vitreous to dull luster. No dominant cleavage as a whole, though feldspars show cleavage; density is approximately 2.6–2.8 g/cm³.
Formation & geological history
Forms when silica-rich magma cools slowly deep underground, allowing visible crystals to grow; examples range from Precambrian to modern geologic ages. The specimen appears weathered and rounded by erosion.
Uses & applications
Widely used as building stone, countertops, monuments, paving, aggregate, and decorative landscaping rock; attractive hand specimens have modest collecting value.
Geological facts
Its interlocking crystals and light overall color distinguish it from basalt and many darker igneous rocks. Pink or cream areas are feldspar, translucent gray grains are quartz, and black grains are commonly biotite or hornblende.
Field identification & locations
Identify by visible interlocking quartz and feldspar crystals, hardness, and inability to scratch with a steel knife; quartz may scratch glass. Common worldwide in continental mountain belts, including India, Brazil, Canada, Scandinavia, and the United States.
