igneous
Granite
Granite (composed mainly of quartz, alkali feldspar, and plagioclase)
Hardness: 6-7 on the Mohs scale. Color: Pinkish-tan to light brownish orange with visible mineral grains. Luster: Dull to earthy weathered surface, glassy quartz specs. Texture: Phaneritic (coarse-grained). Specific gravity: ~2.65-2.75.
- Hardness
- 6-7 on the Mohs scale
- Luster
- Dull to earthy weathered surface, glassy quartz specs
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on the Mohs scale. Color: Pinkish-tan to light brownish orange with visible mineral grains. Luster: Dull to earthy weathered surface, glassy quartz specs. Texture: Phaneritic (coarse-grained). Specific gravity: ~2.65-2.75.
Formation & geological history
Formed by the slow crystallization of felsic magma beneath the Earth's surface (intrusive igneous rock). Commonly associated with continental crust formation across various geological eras.
Uses & applications
Widely used as a dimension stone in construction, countertops, paving, monuments, and crushed aggregate for roads.
Geological facts
Granite makes up a large portion of the Earth's continental crust. Pink or reddish granite gets its distinctive color from potassium-rich alkali feldspars.
Field identification & locations
Can be identified by its coarse-grained interlocking matrix of quartz and pink/tan feldspar crystals embedded in soil or turf. Extremely common worldwide, particularly in shield areas and mountainous regions.
