igneous
Granite
Phaneritic Igneous Rock (Granite)
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pink, white, and grey mottled; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained); Cleavage: Perfect in feldspar minerals; Specific gravity: 2.63 - 2.75
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Pink, white, and grey mottled
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pink, white, and grey mottled; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained); Cleavage: Perfect in feldspar minerals; Specific gravity: 2.63 - 2.75
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow crystallization of silica-rich magma below the Earth's surface over millions of years. This specimen likely contains orthoclase feldspar giving it the pink hue.
Uses & applications
Used extensively in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stones, curbing, monument stone, and as an aggregate.
Geological facts
Granite makes up a large part of the continental crust. Because it is so hard and durable, it is essentially the 'backbone' of mountain ranges like the Sierra Nevada.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its interlocking 'salt and pepper' or multi-colored grainy appearance where individual mineral crystals are visible to the naked eye. Commonly found in continental mountain ranges and plutonic outcrops.
