igneous
Granite
Phaneritic Felsic Igneous Rock
Hardness of 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale, speckled appearance with white, pink, gray, and black colors, dull to sub-vitreous luster, interlocking phaneritic (coarse-grained) crystal structure, specific gravity around 2.65 to 2.75.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale, speckled appearance with white, pink, gray, and black colors, dull to sub-vitreous luster, interlocking phaneritic (coarse-grained) crystal structure, specific gravity around 2.65 to 2.75.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow cooling and solidification of magma rich in silica and alkali feldspar deep underground, typically over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Widely used in construction, architectural buildings, monuments, paving stones, countertops, and decorative tiles due to its extreme durability.
Geological facts
Granite makes up a major part of the Earth's continental crust and is exceptionally resistant to weathering compared to other common rock types.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its distinct salt-and-pepper or speckled crystalline texture containing visible grains of quartz, feldspar, and micas. Found globally in continental shields and mountain ranges.
