igneous
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic igneous rock)
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Pink, reddish-brown, and gray speckled; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained); Cleavage: None (individual minerals have cleavage); Specific Gravity: 2.63 - 2.75
- Hardness
- 6-7 Mohs
- Color
- Pink, reddish-brown, and gray speckled
- Luster
- Dull to vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Pink, reddish-brown, and gray speckled; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained); Cleavage: None (individual minerals have cleavage); Specific Gravity: 2.63 - 2.75
Formation & geological history
Formed through the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface. It is a plutonic rock that cools over thousands of years, typically found in continental crust and mountain ranges.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stones, curbing, monuments, and as crushed stone for road base.
Geological facts
Granite is the most common igneous rock found on Earth's continents and makes up the core of many mountain ranges. The pink color is usually due to an abundance of potassium feldspar.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its interlocking visible crystals. Look for the presence of quartz (glassy gray), feldspar (pink or white blocky crystals), and mica (black specks). It is found worldwide in batholiths and shield areas.
