igneous
Granite
Intrusive Felsic Igneous Rock
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Mottled tan, brown, and black; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained crystals of quartz, feldspar, and mica); Specific gravity: 2.63 to 2.75.
- Hardness
- 6-7 Mohs
- Color
- Mottled tan, brown, and black
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Mottled tan, brown, and black; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained crystals of quartz, feldspar, and mica); Specific gravity: 2.63 to 2.75.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface. These continental crust rocks can be hundreds of millions to billions of years old.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in construction, monument carving, and as a premium countertop material due to its durability and aesthetic appeal.
Geological facts
Granite makes up a large portion of the Earth's continental crust. It is one of the hardest natural stones and has been used in architecture since Ancient Egypt (e.g., the Red Pyramid).
Field identification & locations
Identify by its interlocking crystalline texture and visible grains of different minerals. It is commonly found in batholiths and mountain ranges like the Sierra Nevada.
