igneous
Granite
Phaneritic Igneous Rock (Granite)
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pink, reddish-brown, or grey with dark speckles; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Crystal Structure: Phaneritic (medium-to-coarse grained) granular; Cleavage: None (individual minerals like feldspar have cleavage); Specific Gravity: 2.63 to 2.75
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Pink, reddish-brown, or grey with dark speckles
- Luster
- Dull to vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pink, reddish-brown, or grey with dark speckles; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Crystal Structure: Phaneritic (medium-to-coarse grained) granular; Cleavage: None (individual minerals like feldspar have cleavage); Specific Gravity: 2.63 to 2.75
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow crystallization of magma below the Earth's surface (intrusive). It is a major component of the continental crust and can date back billions of years (Archean Eon to present).
Uses & applications
Extensively used in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stones, monuments, and as crushed stone for road base.
Geological facts
Granite is one of the hardest and most durable rocks on Earth, which is why it has been used since ancient Egypt for building pyramids and obelisks.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its interlocking 'salt and pepper' appearance of quartz, feldspar, and mica minerals. It is found globally in mountainous regions and shield areas like the Canadian Shield or the Scottish Highlands.
