igneous
Granite
Felsic intrusive igneous rock
Hardness: 6 on the Mohs scale. Color ranges from pink to gray depending on its chemistry and mineralogy. Luster: Dull to vitreous. Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained) with visible interlocking crystals of quartz, alkali feldspar, and plagioclase.
- Hardness
- 6 on the Mohs scale
- Luster
- Dull to vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6 on the Mohs scale. Color ranges from pink to gray depending on its chemistry and mineralogy. Luster: Dull to vitreous. Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained) with visible interlocking crystals of quartz, alkali feldspar, and plagioclase.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface over millions of years. Common in continental crust.
Uses & applications
Widely used in construction, architectural buildings, monuments, and countertops due to its durability.
Geological facts
Granite is the most common intrusive igneous rock in the Earth's continental crust and is a major component of mountain ranges.
Field identification & locations
Identified easily by its speckled pink, white, and black coarse-grained appearance. Found worldwide in major mountain belts and shield areas.
