igneous
Granite
Felsic intrusive igneous rock
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale. Color: Varies widely (pink, white, gray, reddish) depending on mineral makeup. Luster: Dull to vitreous. Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained, visible crystals). Cleavage: None distinct as a rock, though individual constituent minerals have cleavage. Specific Gravity: 2.65-2.75
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Luster
- Dull to vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale. Color: Varies widely (pink, white, gray, reddish) depending on mineral makeup. Luster: Dull to vitreous. Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained, visible crystals). Cleavage: None distinct as a rock, though individual constituent minerals have cleavage. Specific Gravity: 2.65-2.75
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow cooling and crystallization of magma rich in silica and alkali aluminosilicates, deep beneath the Earth's surface, over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Widely used in construction, countertops, monuments, flooring, and architectural facing stone.
Geological facts
Granite is the most common igneous rock in the Earth's continental crust and is exceptionally durable against weathering.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its speckled, interlocking crystalline texture composed mainly of quartz, feldspar, and mica. Found globally in major mountain ranges and continental shields.
