igneous
Granite
Felsic intrusive igneous rock
Hardness of 6 on the Mohs scale, typically pink, white, grey, or black with a phaneritic (coarse-grained) texture. Luster is vitreous to dull. Composed mainly of quartz, alkali feldspar, and plagioclase, with biotite and amphibole.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 6 on the Mohs scale, typically pink, white, grey, or black with a phaneritic (coarse-grained) texture. Luster is vitreous to dull. Composed mainly of quartz, alkali feldspar, and plagioclase, with biotite and amphibole.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow crystallization of magma below the Earth's surface over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Widely used in construction, countertops, tile flooring, monuments, and curbing due to its high durability.
Geological facts
Granite forms the core of many major mountain ranges and is one of the most abundant rocks in the Earth's continental crust.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its distinct speckled appearance containing visible interlocking crystals of quartz and feldspar. Found globally in continental shields and mountain belts.
