igneous
Granite
Granite
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: typically white, pink, or gray with darker flecks; Luster: dull to vitreous; Crystal structure: phaneritic (large visible crystals), granular; Composition: quartz, feldspar, and mica.
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- typically white, pink, or gray with darker flecks
- Luster
- dull to vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: typically white, pink, or gray with darker flecks; Luster: dull to vitreous; Crystal structure: phaneritic (large visible crystals), granular; Composition: quartz, feldspar, and mica.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow crystallization of magma below the Earth's surface (intrusive igneous). It can be found in continental crust across all geological ages, often forming the core of mountain ranges.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stones, curbing, monuments, and as crushed stone for road base.
Geological facts
Granite is the most common igneous rock found at Earth's surface and makes up a large part of the continental crust. The name comes from the Latin 'granum', meaning a grain, referring to its coarse-grained structure.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its 'salt and pepper' appearance and visible interlocking crystals of quartz (glassy) and feldspar (blocky). It is found in large outcrops or as boulders in glaciated areas.
