igneous
Granite
Granite
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: 'Salt and pepper' (white, gray, tan, and black); Luster: Dull to vitreous; Structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained); Composition: Quartz, Feldspar, and Mica.
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- 'Salt and pepper' (white, gray, tan, and black)
- Luster
- Dull to vitreous
Identified More igneous →
Explore Granite in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: 'Salt and pepper' (white, gray, tan, and black); Luster: Dull to vitreous; Structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained); Composition: Quartz, Feldspar, and Mica.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface (intrusive). Geological age can range from Precambrian to Cenozoic depending on the location of the batholith.
Uses & applications
Widely used in construction, countertops, floor tiles, paving stones, and memorial monuments.
Geological facts
Granite makes up a large portion of the Earth's continental crust. It is one of the hardest and most durable natural stones, which is why it has been used since ancient Egypt for pyramids and statues.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its coarse, interlocking grains of different colors. It is commonly found in mountainous regions or areas where ancient crust is exposed. Look for the sparkle of mica and the glassy appearance of quartz.
