igneous
Granite
Felsic intrusive igneous rock
Hardness: 6 on the Mohs scale. Color: Varies widely from pink to gray, white, or black depending on mineral content. Luster: Vitreous to dull. Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained, visible crystals). Specific gravity: 2.65 to 2.75.
- Hardness
- 6 on the Mohs scale
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6 on the Mohs scale. Color: Varies widely from pink to gray, white, or black depending on mineral content. Luster: Vitreous to dull. Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained, visible crystals). Specific gravity: 2.65 to 2.75.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow cooling and crystallization of magma rich in silica and alkali aluminum silicates beneath the Earth's surface over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Widely used in construction, architectural facades, monument making, countertops, and decorative aggregate.
Geological facts
Granite is the most common igneous rock in the Earth's continental crust and forms the core of many major mountain ranges.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its speckled, interlocking crystal grains of quartz, feldspar, and micas. Found globally in continental shields and intrusive plutons.
