igneous
Granite
Felsic intrusive igneous rock
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale. Color: Varies widely (pink, white, gray, black) due to mineral makeup. Luster: Vitreous to dull. Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained, visible crystals). Specific gravity: 2.65 - 2.75.
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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: 6-7 on Mohs scale. Color: Varies widely (pink, white, gray, black) due to mineral makeup. Luster: Vitreous to dull. Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained, visible crystals). Specific gravity: 2.65 - 2.75.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface over millions of years, commonly found in continental crusts.
Uses & applications
Widely used in construction, monuments, flooring, countertops, and dimension stone.
Geological facts
Granite is the most common rock of Earth's continental crust and is exceptionally durable against weathering.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified in the field by its interlocking, visible grains of quartz, feldspar, and dark minerals like biotite mica.
