igneous
Granite
Phaneritic Intrusive Igneous Rock (Granite)
Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs scale); Color: Salt and pepper (white/light gray and black); Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained); Cleavage: Distinct in feldspar grains; Specific gravity: 2.6-2.7 g/cm3.
- Hardness
- 6-7 (Mohs scale)
- Color
- Salt and pepper (white/light gray and black)
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs scale); Color: Salt and pepper (white/light gray and black); Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained); Cleavage: Distinct in feldspar grains; Specific gravity: 2.6-2.7 g/cm3.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow cooling and crystallization of silica-rich magma deep underground in the Earth's crust. It is a major component of continental crust and can be billions of years old.
Uses & applications
Widely used in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stones, monuments, and as crushed stone for road base and concrete aggregate.
Geological facts
Granite is one of the hardest and most durable common rocks. Mount Rushmore is carved into a granite batholith in the Black Hills of South Dakota.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its visible interlocking crystals of quartz (clear/gray), feldspar (white/pink), and mica (black flakes). Commonly found in mountainous regions or stable continental shields.
