igneous
Granite
Intrusive Igneous Rock
Hardness: 6 on the Mohs scale. Color: Typically pink, white, grey, or black speckled. Luster: Dull to vitreous (glassy) on quartz and feldspar crystals. Crystal structure: Phanertic (coarse-grained visible crystals). Cleavage: Feldspar and mica components have distinct cleavage planes. Specific gravity: 2.65 to 2.75.
- Hardness
- 6 on the Mohs scale
- Color
- Typically pink, white, grey, or black speckled
- Luster
- Dull to vitreous (glassy) on quartz and feldspar crystals
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 on the Mohs scale. Color: Typically pink, white, grey, or black speckled. Luster: Dull to vitreous (glassy) on quartz and feldspar crystals. Crystal structure: Phanertic (coarse-grained visible crystals). Cleavage: Feldspar and mica components have distinct cleavage planes. Specific gravity: 2.65 to 2.75.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow cooling and solidification of molten magma beneath the Earth's surface over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Commonly used in construction, monuments, flooring, countertops, and decorative stone due to its durability and aesthetic appeal.
Geological facts
Granite makes up a major part of the continental crust of the Earth. It is one of the most durable natural building stones available.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its visible, interlocking mineral grains of quartz, feldspar, and biotite mica. Found worldwide in continental shields and mountain ranges.
