igneous
Granite
Granite (Felsic Plutonic Rock)
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pink, white, gray, and black speckles; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained) interlocking crystals of quartz, feldspar, and mica; Specific Gravity: 2.63 to 2.75.
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Pink, white, gray, and black speckles
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pink, white, gray, and black speckles; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained) interlocking crystals of quartz, feldspar, and mica; Specific Gravity: 2.63 to 2.75.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface (intrusive). Most granites are associated with mountain-building periods and date back hundreds of millions to billions of years.
Uses & applications
Widely used in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stones, curbing, monuments, and as crushed stone for road base.
Geological facts
Granite makes up a large portion of the Earth's continental crust. It is one of the hardest and most durable natural stones, which is why it has been used since ancient Egypt for obelisks and pyramids.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its 'salt and pepper' appearance and visible crystal grains. Found globally in continental landmasses, particularly in batholiths and exposed mountain cores. Often collected as river-worn pebbles like this specimen.
