igneous
Granite
Phaneritic Igneous Rock (Granite)
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale. Color: Salt-and-pepper appearance with white/transparent quartz, pinkish feldspar, and black biotite or hornblende. Luster: Vitreous to pearly. Structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained) crystalline texture. Specific gravity: 2.63 to 2.75.
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Luster
- Vitreous to pearly
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale. Color: Salt-and-pepper appearance with white/transparent quartz, pinkish feldspar, and black biotite or hornblende. Luster: Vitreous to pearly. Structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained) crystalline texture. Specific gravity: 2.63 to 2.75.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow crystallization of silica-rich magma beneath the Earth's surface (intrusive). Geological age varies from Precambrian to Cenozoic depending on the pluton location.
Uses & applications
Extensively 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. El Capitan in Yosemite National Park is one of the world's most famous granitic monoliths.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its speckled, coarse crystalline texture where individual mineral grains are visible to the naked eye. It is found in mountain ranges and continental shields worldwide.
