igneous
Granite
Felsic intrusive igneous rock
Hardness: 6-7 on the Mohs scale. Color: Varies widely (pink, white, grey, black) depending on mineral composition. Luster: Vitreous to dull. Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained, visible crystals). Cleavage: None distinct as a rock, though individual minerals like feldspar and mica have distinct cleavage.…
- Hardness
- 6-7 on the Mohs scale
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on the Mohs scale. Color: Varies widely (pink, white, grey, black) depending on mineral composition. Luster: Vitreous to dull. Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained, visible crystals). Cleavage: None distinct as a rock, though individual minerals like feldspar and mica have distinct cleavage. Specific gravity: 2.65-2.75.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow crystallization of magma below the Earth's surface over thousands to millions of years, typically associated with continental crust and tectonic plate subduction zones.
Uses & applications
Widely used in construction, architectural facades, monument building, countertops, floor tiles, and decorative aggregate.
Geological facts
Granite makes up a major part of the continental crust on Earth and is rarely found on other terrestrial planets. Its high durability and abundance make it one of the most widely utilized dimension stones in human history.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its speckled, interlocking crystalline appearance containing quartz, feldspar, and dark minerals like biotite mica or amphibole. Found globally in continental shields, mountain ranges, and batholiths.
