igneous
Granite
Granite (Felsic Plutonic Rock)
Hardness: 6-7 on the Mohs scale. Color: Typically light-colored, ranging from grey to white or pink. Luster: Dull to vitreous (glassy) depending on mineral faces. Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained visible crystals). Cleavage: None for the rock as a whole; specific minerals like mica have perfect cleavage.
- Hardness
- 6-7 on the Mohs scale
- Color
- Typically light-colored, ranging from grey to white or pink
- Luster
- Dull to vitreous (glassy) depending on mineral faces
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on the Mohs scale. Color: Typically light-colored, ranging from grey to white or pink. Luster: Dull to vitreous (glassy) depending on mineral faces. Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained visible crystals). Cleavage: None for the rock as a whole; specific minerals like mica have perfect cleavage.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow cooling and solidification of magma deep beneath the Earth's surface (intrusive). They can be hundreds of millions to billions of years old, often found in the continental crust of cratons.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stones, and memorial monuments due to its durability and aesthetic appeal.
Geological facts
Granite makes up a large portion of the Earth's continental crust. Famous peaks like Mount Everest and the granite domes of Yosemite National Park (like Half Dome) are composed of this hardy material.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its 'salt and pepper' appearance, composed of quartz, feldspar, and small dark specks of biotite or hornblende. Crystals should be large enough to see with the naked eye. Commonly found in mountain ranges and eroded shield areas.
