igneous
Granite
Granitic plutonic rock, chiefly quartz, alkali feldspar, plagioclase, and mica/amphibole
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectCoarse-grained, mottled cream, pink, gray, and black; vitreous quartz and pearly feldspar with no prominent cleavage as a whole. Typical Mohs hardness is about 6–7 and specific gravity 2.63–2.75.
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Physical properties
Coarse-grained, mottled cream, pink, gray, and black; vitreous quartz and pearly feldspar with no prominent cleavage as a whole. Typical Mohs hardness is about 6–7 and specific gravity 2.63–2.75.
Formation & geological history
Formed when silica-rich magma slowly crystallized deep within continental crust, commonly during Precambrian to Phanerozoic mountain-building events; the specimen may also contain weathering or alteration stains.
Uses & applications
Widely used as dimension stone, countertops, monuments, aggregate, and architectural facing; attractive hand specimens are collected but are usually low value.
Geological facts
The visible interlocking crystals indicate slow underground cooling rather than volcanic eruption. Pink areas are commonly potassium feldspar, translucent grains are quartz, and dark grains are biotite or hornblende.
Field identification & locations
Identify it by its coarse interlocking texture and mixed quartz–feldspar–dark-mineral composition; unlike sandstone, it lacks rounded grains or bedding. Common worldwide, especially in continental shields and mountain belts.
