igneous
Granite
Granite
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Salt and pepper/mottled grey, pink, or white; Luster: Phaneritic (visible crystals); Crystal Structure: Granular/Crystalline; Specific Gravity: 2.65-2.75
- Hardness
- 6-7 Mohs
- Color
- Salt and pepper/mottled grey, pink, or white
- Luster
- Phaneritic (visible crystals)
Identified More igneous →
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Salt and pepper/mottled grey, pink, or white; Luster: Phaneritic (visible crystals); Crystal Structure: Granular/Crystalline; Specific Gravity: 2.65-2.75
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface. It is an intrusive igneous rock typical of continental crust, often dating from various geological periods where tectonic activity occurred.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stones, monuments, and as crushed stone for road base.
Geological facts
Granite is one of the hardest substances in the world, second only to diamonds. It makes up a large portion of the Earth's continental crust and is the primary rock of famous landmarks like Yosemite's Half Dome.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its 'salt and pepper' appearance and visible interlocking crystals of quartz (clear/grey), feldspar (white/pink), and mica (black/shiny). Extremely common in mountain ranges and shields.
