igneous
Granite
Felsic intrusive igneous rock
Hardness of 6 on the Mohs scale, colors range from pink to gray depending on mineral chemistry, vitreous to dull luster, phaneritic crystal structure, poor cleavage overall, specific gravity around 2.65 to 2.75.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 6 on the Mohs scale, colors range from pink to gray depending on mineral chemistry, vitreous to dull luster, phaneritic crystal structure, poor cleavage overall, specific gravity around 2.65 to 2.75.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow cooling and crystallization of magma rich in silica and alkali feldspar beneath the Earth's surface over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Commonly used in construction, architectural building facades, countertops, monuments, and crushed stone for roads.
Geological facts
Granite is the most common plutonic rock in the Earth's continental crust and forms the core of many major mountain ranges.
Field identification & locations
Easily identifiable in the field by its interlocking visible crystals of quartz, feldspar, and mica. Found worldwide in continental shields and intrusive batholiths.
