igneous
Granite
Granite (Felsic Plutonic Rock)
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: typically mottled pink, white, gray, and black; Luster: vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: phaneritic (coarse-grained); Cleavage: none (irregular fracture); Specific gravity: 2.63 to 2.75.
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- typically mottled pink, white, gray, and black
- Luster
- vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: typically mottled pink, white, gray, and black; Luster: vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: phaneritic (coarse-grained); Cleavage: none (irregular fracture); Specific gravity: 2.63 to 2.75.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow crystallization of silica-rich magma below the Earth's surface in batholiths. Can range in age from billions of years old to relatively recent Cenozoic formations.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stones, and monuments. Also used as crushed stone/aggregate for road base and railroad ballast.
Geological facts
Granite makes up a significant portion of the Earth's continental crust. Famous peaks like Yosemite's Half Dome and Mount Rushmore are carved into massive granite formations.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its visible interlocking crystals of quartz (clear/gray), feldspar (white/pink), and mica (shiny black/silver flakes). Found globally in mountainous regions and shield areas like the Canadian Shield.
