igneous
Granite
Felsic intrusive igneous rock
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale. Color: Varies widely (pink, white, gray, black) depending on 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
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale. Color: Varies widely (pink, white, gray, black) depending on 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 cooling and crystallization of magma beneath the Earth's surface over millions of years. Commonly associated with continental crust and mountain-building processes.
Uses & applications
Widely used in construction, architectural building facades, monuments, countertops, paving stones, and interior design.
Geological facts
Granite is the most common igneous rock in the Earth's continental crust and is exceptionally durable against weathering. It is the primary component of many mountain ranges, such as the Sierra Nevada in California.
Field identification & locations
Identified easily by its interlocking, visible crystals of quartz, feldspar, and dark minerals like biotite mica or amphibole. Found globally in continental shields and intrusive plutons.
