Igneous
Granite
Granite (composed primarily of Quartz SiO2, Feldspar KAlSi3O8 – NaAlSi3O8 – CaAl2Si2O8, and Mica)
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pink, gray, or white with dark specks; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Crystal Structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained holocrystalline); Cleavage: None (though constituent minerals have cleavage); Specific Gravity: 2.63 - 2.75
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Pink, gray, or white with dark specks
- Luster
- Dull to vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pink, gray, or white with dark specks; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Crystal Structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained holocrystalline); Cleavage: None (though constituent minerals have cleavage); Specific Gravity: 2.63 - 2.75
Formation & geological history
Intrusive formation through the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface. Often Proterozoic to Cenozoic in age, found in continental crust and mountain ranges.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stones, curbing, monuments, and as crushed stone for road base.
Geological facts
Granite makes up a large portion of the Earth's continental crust. Yosemite National Park's famous Half Dome and El Capitan are massive granite monoliths. It is one of the hardest and most durable natural stones.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its interlocking 'salt and pepper' crystalline texture where individual mineral grains are visible to the naked eye. Found in mountainous or shield regions. Collectors look for unique inclusions or rare pegmatite variations.
