igneous
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Salt and pepper appearance (white, grey, and black); Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained visible crystals); Major minerals: Quartz, Feldspar, and Biotite/Hornblende.
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Salt and pepper appearance (white, grey, and black)
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Salt and pepper appearance (white, grey, and black); Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained visible crystals); Major minerals: Quartz, Feldspar, and Biotite/Hornblende.
Formation & geological history
Formed by the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface in large plutons. This slow cooling allows for the growth of large, visible mineral grains. Typically formed during orogenic (mountain-building) events across various geological eras.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stones, curbing, monuments, and as aggregate in infrastructure projects due to its durability.
Geological facts
Granite makes up a large portion of the Earth's continental crust. Mount Rushmore is carved into a granite batholith, and Yosemite's famous El Capitan is a massive granite monolith.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its interlocking 'salt and pepper' crystalline texture where no single mineral dominates. It is found globally in the cores of mountain ranges and in ancient shield areas like the Canadian Shield. Field identification focuses on the lack of layering and the presence of glassy quartz grains.
