igneous
Granite
Phaneritic plutonic rock (SiO2-rich)
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: mottled white, pink, grey, and black; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained); Composition: Quartz, Feldspar, and Mica.
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- mottled white, pink, grey, and black
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: mottled white, pink, grey, and black; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained); Composition: Quartz, Feldspar, and Mica.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface. It is a plutonic intrusive rock usually found in continental crust plates, dating back to various geological eras from the Precambrian to Cenozoic.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stone, curbing, monuments, and as crushed stone for aggregate.
Geological facts
Granite is one of the hardest substances in the world, second only to diamonds. It makes up a large portion of the continental crust and forms the cores of many mountain ranges.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its interlocking 'salt and pepper' crystalline texture and the presence of visible quartz grains. It will not be scratched by a steel knife. Found globally in mountainous regions.
