igneous
Granite
Phaneritic Felsic Igneous Rock
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pink, white, grey, and black; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained); Cleavage: Various depending on mineral component (e.g., feldspar has two directions at 90 degrees); Specific Gravity: 2.63-2.75
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Pink, white, grey, and black
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pink, white, grey, and black; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained); Cleavage: Various depending on mineral component (e.g., feldspar has two directions at 90 degrees); Specific Gravity: 2.63-2.75
Formation & geological history
Formed through the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface (intrusive). Most granite dates back to the Precambrian or Paleozoic eras, found in continental crust particularly in mountain belts.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stones, curbing, and monuments due to its durability and aesthetic appeal.
Geological facts
Granite is the most common igneous rock found on Earth's continents and makes up the bulk of the continental crust. The word comes from the Latin 'granum', meaning a grain, in reference to its coarse-grained structure.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by look for a phaneritic texture where individual mineral grains (quartz, feldspar, mica) are visible to the naked eye. It contains at least 20% quartz by volume. Found in batholiths and mountain ranges globally.
