igneous
Granite
Granite (Felsic Plutonic Rock)
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale. Color: Pink, reddish-brown, tan, gray, with iron staining. Luster: Dull to vitreous. Structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained intrusive igneous texture composed mainly of quartz, potassium feldspar, and plagioclase).
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Pink, reddish-brown, tan, gray, with iron staining
- Luster
- Dull to vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale. Color: Pink, reddish-brown, tan, gray, with iron staining. Luster: Dull to vitreous. Structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained intrusive igneous texture composed mainly of quartz, potassium feldspar, and plagioclase).
Formation & geological history
Formed by the slow crystallization of felsic magma beneath the Earth's surface at high pressure and temperature over millions of years. Commonly found in continental crust plutons and batholiths.
Uses & applications
Widely used in construction, road aggregate, dimension stone, counter tops, monuments, and landscaping.
Geological facts
Granite makes up a large portion of Earth's continental crust. The distinct reddish-brown tint in weathered samples often comes from potassium feldspar combined with iron oxide surface staining.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its visible crystalline texture showing interlocking grains of quartz, feldspar, and dark accessory minerals. Very common globally in mountainous terrain and shield regions.
