
igneous
Granite
Plutonic igneous rock composed mainly of quartz, alkali feldspar, and plagioclase
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 6-7 on the Mohs scale, visible interlocking mineral crystals, pink, white, or gray color with dark biotite flecks, and a dull to vitreous luster.
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 6-7 on the Mohs scale, visible interlocking mineral crystals, pink, white, or gray color with dark biotite flecks, and a dull to vitreous luster.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow cooling and crystallization of magma beneath the Earth's surface over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Widely used in construction, architectural building facades, countertops, and monumental stone.
Geological facts
Granite forms the core of many major mountain ranges and is the most common intrusive rock in the Earth's continental crust.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its distinct speckled appearance and hard, interlocking quartz and feldspar crystals. Found globally in continental shields.