igneous
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic Igneous Rock)
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Salt-and-pepper (white, gray, pink, black); Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (large, visible crystals); Composition: Quartz, Feldspar, Mica.
- Hardness
- 6-7 Mohs
- Color
- Salt-and-pepper (white, gray, pink, black)
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Salt-and-pepper (white, gray, pink, black); Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (large, visible crystals); Composition: Quartz, Feldspar, Mica.
Formation & geological history
Formed by the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface. It is a plutonic rock that cools over thousands to millions of years, typically within continental crust.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stones, curbing, and large scale architectural monuments and memorials.
Geological facts
Granite makes up a large portion of the Earth's continental crust. Mount Rushmore is carved into a massive granite batholith in the Black Hills of South Dakota.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its speckled appearance and visible interlocking crystals. It is extremely hard and won't scratch easily. Common in mountain ranges and eroded shield areas.
