igneous
Granite
Intrusive igneous rock
Hardness: 6-7 on the Mohs scale. Color: Varies from pink to gray, white, or black depending on mineral composition. Luster: Vitreous to dull. Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained, visible crystals). Specific gravity: 2.65 - 2.75.
- Hardness
- 6-7 on the Mohs scale
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on the Mohs scale. Color: Varies from pink to gray, white, or black depending on mineral composition. Luster: Vitreous to dull. Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained, visible crystals). Specific gravity: 2.65 - 2.75.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow cooling of magma rich in silica and alkali metal oxides that deep underground takes place over millions of years. Common in continental crust.
Uses & applications
Widely used in construction, buildings, monuments, paving, and kitchen countertops.
Geological facts
Granite is the most common rock of Earth's continental crust. It forms the core of many major mountain ranges.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its speckled, interlocking crystal texture containing quartz, feldspar, and micas. Found globally in shield areas and mountainous regions.
