
igneous
Granite
Intrusive Igneous Rock
Hardness: 6-7 on the Mohs scale. Color: Typically pink, white, grey, or black speckled. Luster: Vitreous to dull. Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained visible crystals). Specific gravity: 2.65-2.75.
- Hardness
- 6-7 on the Mohs scale
- Color
- Typically pink, white, grey, or black speckled
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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 the Mohs scale. Color: Typically pink, white, grey, or black speckled. Luster: Vitreous to dull. Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained visible crystals). Specific gravity: 2.65-2.75.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow crystallization of magma below the Earth's surface over millions of years. Common in continental crusts.
Uses & applications
Widely used in construction, architecture, countertops, monuments, and curbing due to its high durability.
Geological facts
Granite is the most common rock of the Earth's continental crust and forms the core of many major mountain ranges.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its distinct interlocking mineral grains of quartz, feldspar, and dark biotite mica. Found globally in shield areas and mountainous regions.