igneous
Granite
Felsic intrusive igneous rock
Hardness of 6 on the Mohs scale, predominantly pink, white, gray, and black speckled coloration, dull to vitreous luster, phaneritic (coarse-grained) crystal structure, specific gravity around 2.65 to 2.75.
Identified More igneous →
Explore Granite in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness of 6 on the Mohs scale, predominantly pink, white, gray, and black speckled coloration, dull to vitreous luster, phaneritic (coarse-grained) crystal structure, specific gravity around 2.65 to 2.75.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow cooling of magma rich in silica and alkali aluminosilicates deep beneath the Earth's surface over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Widely used in construction, architectural buildings, monuments, floor tiles, and countertops.
Geological facts
Granite is the most common igneous rock in the Earth's continental crust and is exceptionally durable against weathering.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its distinct interlocking mineral grains of quartz, feldspar, and mica. Found abundantly worldwide in continental shields and mountain ranges.
