igneous
Granite
Phaneritic Felsic Igneous Rock
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Mottled cream, tan, and black; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained coarse crystalline); Cleavage: Distinct in feldspar components; Specific gravity: 2.63-2.75
- Hardness
- 6-7 Mohs
- Color
- Mottled cream, tan, and black
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Mottled cream, tan, and black; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained coarse crystalline); Cleavage: Distinct in feldspar components; Specific gravity: 2.63-2.75
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow cooling of silica-rich magma deep underground (plutonic). This process allows large crystals of quartz, feldspar, and mica to grow over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Primarily used in construction for countertops, flooring, monuments, and curbing due to its durability and aesthetic appeal.
Geological facts
Granite constitutes a large part of the Earth's continental crust. Mount Rushmore is carved into a granite batholith in the Black Hills of South Dakota.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its speckled 'salt and pepper' appearance and visible interlocking crystals. It is found in mountain ranges and cratons globally, such as the Yosemite Valley.
