igneous
Granite
Intrusive igneous rock composed mainly of quartz, alkali feldspar, and plagioclase
Hardness of 6 on the Mohs scale; color ranges from pink to gray depending on its chemistry and mineralogy; luster is typically vitreous to dull; crystal structure is phaneritic (coarse-grained, visible crystals); specific gravity is around 2.65 to 2.75.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 6 on the Mohs scale; color ranges from pink to gray depending on its chemistry and mineralogy; luster is typically vitreous to dull; crystal structure is phaneritic (coarse-grained, visible crystals); specific gravity is around 2.65 to 2.75.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow cooling of magma rich in silica and alkali metal oxides beneath the Earth's surface. This cooling process allows large crystals to grow over thousands to millions of years.
Uses & applications
Widely used in construction, buildings, bridges, paving, monuments, and as interior architectural stone such as kitchen countertops and floor tiles.
Geological facts
Granite is the most common rock of the Earth's continental crust. It is exceptionally durable, resistant to weathering, and can maintain structural integrity for centuries.
Field identification & locations
Can be identified in the field by its interlocking, visible mineral grains of glassy quartz, opaque pink or white feldspar, and dark flakes of biotite mica. It is found worldwide in continental shields and mountain belts.
