igneous
Granite
Phaneritic Felsic Igneous Rock
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pink, gray, or white base with black/dark specks; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Structure: Phaneritic (visible crystals); Cleavage: None (fractures irregularly); Specific Gravity: 2.63 - 2.75
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Pink, gray, or white base with black/dark specks
- Luster
- Dull to vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pink, gray, or white base with black/dark specks; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Structure: Phaneritic (visible crystals); Cleavage: None (fractures irregularly); Specific Gravity: 2.63 - 2.75
Formation & geological history
Formed through the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface (plutonic). It is found in continental crust and often dates back hundreds of millions to billions of years, formed at great depths under high pressure.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stones, monuments, and as crushed stone for road base.
Geological facts
Granite makes up a large part of the continental crust. The name comes from the Latin 'granum', meaning a grain, in reference to its coarse-grained structure. Mount Rushmore is carved into a granite batholith.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its 'salt and pepper' appearance and visible interlocking crystals of quartz, feldspar, and mica. It is extremely common in mountainous regions or areas with exposed shield rock.
