igneous
Granite
Granite
Hardness: 6-7 on the Mohs scale. Color: Varies widely (pink, white, gray, black) with a phaneritic (coarse-grained) texture. Luster: Dull to vitreous. Crystal structure: Composed of interlocking mineral crystals, primarily quartz, alkali feldspar, and plagioclase, with minor micas and amphiboles.…
- Hardness
- 6-7 on the Mohs scale
- Luster
- Dull to vitreous
Identified More igneous →
Explore Granite in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on the Mohs scale. Color: Varies widely (pink, white, gray, black) with a phaneritic (coarse-grained) texture. Luster: Dull to vitreous. Crystal structure: Composed of interlocking mineral crystals, primarily quartz, alkali feldspar, and plagioclase, with minor micas and amphiboles. Specific gravity: 2.65-2.75.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface, typically over millions of years, allowing large mineral crystals to grow.
Uses & applications
Widely used in construction, architectural buildings, monuments, countertops, paving stones, and landscaping.
Geological facts
Granite is the most common rock of Earth's continental crust and is also found forming the basement rocks of many shield areas.
Field identification & locations
Identifiable by its visible interlocking grains of quartz (glassy gray/clear), feldspar (pink or white), and dark minerals like biotite mica. Common worldwide in continental mountain ranges.
