igneous
Granite
Phaneritic Igneous Rock (Granite)
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale. Color: Pinkish-tan groundmass with black mafic inclusions. Luster: Dull to vitreous. Crystal structure: Phaneritic (visible crystals). Cleavage: Imperfect/Absent in rock mass. Specific gravity: 2.63-2.75.
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Pinkish-tan groundmass with black mafic inclusions
- Luster
- Dull to vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale. Color: Pinkish-tan groundmass with black mafic inclusions. Luster: Dull to vitreous. Crystal structure: Phaneritic (visible crystals). Cleavage: Imperfect/Absent in rock mass. Specific gravity: 2.63-2.75.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow crystallization of magma below the Earth's surface (intrusive). Predominantly formed during various orogenic (mountain-building) events throughout Earth's history, from the Archean to the Cenozoic eras.
Uses & applications
Used widely in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stones, curbing, and monuments. Also popular as crushed stone for road base and railroad ballast.
Geological facts
Granite makes up a large portion of the Earth's continental crust. El Capitan in Yosemite National Park is one of the most famous granite monoliths in the world. It is much harder than marble and resistant to scratching and acid.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its interlocking crystalline texture and hard, speckled appearance (salt and pepper or pink/black). Found globally in continental shields and mountain ranges. Collectors look for unique mineral inclusions or pegmatitic textures.
