igneous
Granite
Intrusive Felsic Igneous Rock (primarily Quartz and Feldspar)
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: White, gray, or tan with black speckles; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained coarse crystals); Cleavage: Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 2.63-2.75
- Hardness
- 6-7 Mohs
- Color
- White, gray, or tan with black speckles
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: White, gray, or tan with black speckles; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained coarse crystals); Cleavage: Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 2.63-2.75
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow cooling and solidification of magma deep within the Earth's crust over millions of years. It is a major component of continental crust.
Uses & applications
Extensively 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 natural stones. Mount Rushmore is carved into a granite batholith, and the base of the Statue of Liberty is made of granite from Maine.
Field identification & locations
Look for a salt-and-pepper appearance with interlocking crystals visible to the naked eye. It is found in mountain ranges and shields globally. Collectors value specimens with large, unique mineral inclusions.
