igneous
Granite
Granite (Plutonic Igneous Rock)
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pinkish-brown to reddish, gray, and speckled; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Texture: Phaneritic (medium to coarse-grained); Composition: Quartz, alkali feldspar, plagioclase feldspar, and minor mica/amphibole.
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Pinkish-brown to reddish, gray, and speckled
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
Identified More igneous →
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pinkish-brown to reddish, gray, and speckled; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Texture: Phaneritic (medium to coarse-grained); Composition: Quartz, alkali feldspar, plagioclase feldspar, and minor mica/amphibole.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the slow crystallization of felsic magma deep beneath the Earth's surface (intrusive igneous activity). Found in continental crust exposures worldwide across various geological ages.
Uses & applications
Dimension stone for construction, countertop surfaces, monuments, paving, curb stones, and crushed stone for aggregate.
Geological facts
Granite makes up a major part of the continental crust. The pinkish color typically comes from potassium-rich alkali feldspar (orthoclase).
Field identification & locations
Look for a speckled, crystalline texture with interlocking visible grains of quartz (glassy gray/clear) and feldspar (pink/white/tan). Widely distributed in mountainous regions, batholiths, and shield rocks.
