
igneous
Granite
Granite
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale. Color: Orange, reddish, white, gray, and black speckles. Luster: Vitreous to dull, depending on polishing. Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained).
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Orange, reddish, white, gray, and black speckles
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull, depending on polishing
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale. Color: Orange, reddish, white, gray, and black speckles. Luster: Vitreous to dull, depending on polishing. Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained).
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface. Composed mainly of quartz, alkali feldspar, and plagioclase, often with dark minerals like biotite or hornblende.
Uses & applications
Used widely in construction (dimension stone, flooring, countertops), monuments, paving, and sometimes as tumbled stones for collecting or jewelry.
Geological facts
Granite is a very common intrusive igneous rock that makes up a significant part of the continental crust. This specific specimen has been tumbled or water-worn, giving it a smooth, rounded shape and highlighting the orange/red potassium feldspar and white quartz.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its coarse-grained texture and interlocking crystals of feldspar, quartz, and dark minerals. Common worldwide in continental crust regions.