igneous
Granite
Intrusive Igneous Rock
Hardness of 6 on the Mohs scale, colors vary from pink to gray depending on feldspar content, dull to vitreous luster, phaneritic (coarse-grained) crystal structure, specific gravity around 2.65 to 2.75.
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 on the Mohs scale, colors vary from pink to gray depending on feldspar content, dull to vitreous luster, phaneritic (coarse-grained) crystal structure, specific gravity around 2.65 to 2.75.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow cooling of magma rich in silica and alkali metal oxides deep underground, occurring over millions of years across various geological eras.
Uses & applications
Widely used in construction, architectural buildings, countertops, monuments, and curbing due to its high durability.
Geological facts
Granite is the most common rock of Earth's continental crust and is formed exclusively on Earth among the terrestrial planets.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its visible interlocking grains of quartz, feldspar, and mica. Found abundantly in continental shields and mountain ranges globally.
