igneous
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic Quartz-Feldspar Rock)
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: typically mottled grey, white, pink, and black; Luster: vitreous to dull; Crystal Structure: phaneritic (coarse-grained visible crystals); Cleavage: none (fractures); Specific Gravity: 2.63 to 2.75
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- typically mottled grey, white, pink, and black
- Luster
- vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: typically mottled grey, white, pink, and black; Luster: vitreous to dull; Crystal Structure: phaneritic (coarse-grained visible crystals); Cleavage: none (fractures); Specific Gravity: 2.63 to 2.75
Formation & geological history
Formed through the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface. It is an intrusive igneous rock found in continental crust, often part of ancient cratons dating back billions of years.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stones, curbing, monuments, and as crushed stone for road base.
Geological facts
Granite is one of the hardest and most durable rocks on Earth. It makes up much of the continental crust and forms the core of many major mountain ranges. The name comes from the Latin 'granum', meaning a grain.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its interlocking, coarse grains of quartz (glassy), feldspar (opaque white/pink), and mica (shiny flakes). It is extremely common in mountain belts and shield regions like the Canadian Shield or the Appalachians.
