igneous
Granite
Phaneritic Felsic Igneous Rock
Hardness: 6 on the Mohs scale. Color: Varies from pink to gray, speckled with light and dark minerals. Luster: Dull to vitreous. Crystal structure: Phaneric (coarse-grained, visible crystals). Specific gravity: 2.65 - 2.75.
- Hardness
- 6 on the Mohs scale
- Luster
- Dull to vitreous
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 on the Mohs scale. Color: Varies from pink to gray, speckled with light and dark minerals. Luster: Dull to vitreous. Crystal structure: Phaneric (coarse-grained, visible crystals). Specific gravity: 2.65 - 2.75.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow cooling of magma rich in silica and alkali aluminum silicates deep underground, typically over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Widely used in construction, architectural structures, countertops, monuments, and paving stones.
Geological facts
Granite is the most common intrusive igneous rock on Earth's continental crust and forms the core of many mountain ranges.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified in the field by its distinct interlocking mineral grains of quartz, feldspar, and micas. Found globally in continental shields and intrusive plutons.
