igneous
Granite
Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: White, gray, pink; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained); Specific gravity: 2.63-2.75
- Hardness
- 6-7 Mohs
- Color
- White, gray, pink
- Luster
- Dull to vitreous
Identified More igneous →
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: White, gray, pink; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained); Specific gravity: 2.63-2.75
Formation & geological history
Formed by the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface. Found in continental crust and mountain ranges, often dating back hundreds of millions of years.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in construction for countertops, flooring, monuments, and as crushed stone for road base and railroad ballast.
Geological facts
Granite is one of the hardest substances in the world, second only to diamonds. It makes up a large portion of the Earth's continental crust.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its visible interlocking crystals of quartz, feldspar, and mica. It is found globally in large plutons and batholiths.
