igneous
Granite
Felsic intrusive igneous rock
Hardness: 6 on the Mohs scale. Color: Varies widely (pink, white, gray) with dark mineral flecks. Luster: Dull to vitreous. Crystal structure: Phanerozoic, coarse-grained interlocking crystals. Specific gravity: 2.65 to 2.75.
- Hardness
- 6 on the Mohs scale
- Color
- Varies widely (pink, white, gray) with dark mineral flecks
- Luster
- Dull to vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6 on the Mohs scale. Color: Varies widely (pink, white, gray) with dark mineral flecks. Luster: Dull to vitreous. Crystal structure: Phanerozoic, coarse-grained interlocking crystals. Specific gravity: 2.65 to 2.75.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow cooling of magma rich in silica and alkali feldspar deep beneath the Earth's crust over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Commonly used in construction, monuments, countertops, flooring, and decorative building facades.
Geological facts
Granite is the most common intrusive rock on Earth's continental crust and is rarely found on any other planet.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its speckled pink, white, and black crystalline appearance. Found worldwide in major mountain ranges and continental shields.
