igneous
Granite
Intrusive Igneous Rock
Hardness of 6 on the Mohs scale. Colors range widely from pink and white to gray and black, depending on the mineral composition. Luster is dull to glassy. It has a phaneritic (coarse-grained) crystal structure. Specific gravity is approximately 2.65 to 2.75.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 6 on the Mohs scale. Colors range widely from pink and white to gray and black, depending on the mineral composition. Luster is dull to glassy. It has a phaneritic (coarse-grained) crystal structure. Specific gravity is approximately 2.65 to 2.75.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow cooling and solidification of magma (silicate melt) deep beneath the Earth's surface, typically over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Widely used in construction, architectural building facades, countertops, monuments, and curbing due to its high durability.
Geological facts
Granite is the most common rock of the Earth's continental crust and is frequently covered by sedimentary rocks in some areas. It is exceptionally strong, resisting weathering better than many other natural stone types.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its speckled appearance, which comes from visible interlocking crystals of quartz, feldspar, and mica. Found abundantly in continental shields and mountain ranges worldwide.
