igneous
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Salt and pepper (white, gray, black, pink); Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarsegrained); Composition: Quartz, Alkali Feldspar, and Plagioclase.
- Hardness
- 6-7 Mohs
- Color
- Salt and pepper (white, gray, black, pink)
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Salt and pepper (white, gray, black, pink); Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarsegrained); Composition: Quartz, Alkali Feldspar, and Plagioclase.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface. It is a plutonic rock found in continental crust, often dating back hundreds of millions to billions of years.
Uses & applications
Widely used as a construction material, dimension stone for countertops, flooring, monuments, and as crushed stone for road base.
Geological facts
Granite is one of the most common rocks in the Earth's crust and makes up the bulk of the continental plates. It is exceptionally durable and resistant to weathering.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its visible interlocking crystals of quartz and feldspar. It is found in mountain ranges and ancient shield areas like the Canadian Shield. To identify in the field, look for the 'salt and pepper' appearance and hardness (cannot be scratched by a steel blade).
