igneous
Granite
Granite (composed primarily of Quartz, Alkali Feldspar, and Plagioclase)
Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs scale), Color: White to light grey with dark speckles, Luster: Vitreous to dull, Structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained crystals), Cleavage: Indistinct
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 (Mohs scale), Color: White to light grey with dark speckles, Luster: Vitreous to dull, Structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained crystals), Cleavage: Indistinct
Formation & geological history
Formed by the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface. It is an intrusive igneous rock typical of the continental crust, formed over millions of years through cooling plutons.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in construction (countertops, tiles, paving), monuments, and as crushed stone for road base and concrete aggregate.
Geological facts
Granite is the most common igneous rock found at the Earth's surface and makes up a significant portion of the continental crust. The term 'granite' comes from the Latin 'granum', meaning a grain, in reference to its coarse-grained structure.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its interlocking, visible crystals of quartz (clear/grey) and feldspar (white/pink). Found in mountainous regions and areas where ancient crust is exposed. It is very resistant to erosion.
