igneous
Granite
Felsic intrusive igneous rock
Hardness: 6 on the Mohs scale. Color: Varies widely from pink to gray, white, or black depending on mineral content. Luster: Vitreous to dull. Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained, visible crystals). Cleavage: None distinct as a rock, though individual constituent minerals have cleavage.…
- Hardness
- 6 on the Mohs scale
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6 on the Mohs scale. Color: Varies widely from pink to gray, white, or black depending on mineral content. Luster: Vitreous to dull. Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained, visible crystals). Cleavage: None distinct as a rock, though individual constituent minerals have cleavage. Specific gravity: 2.65 to 2.75.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow cooling and solidification of magma rich in silica and alkali metal oxides deep beneath the Earth's surface. Geological age ranges from Precambrian to recent.
Uses & applications
Widely used in construction, monuments, flooring, countertops, and exterior cladding due to its high durability and resistance to weathering.
Geological facts
Granite is the most common intrusive rock in the Earth's continental crust and is frequently found in major mountain ranges. It is often confused with gneiss, which is metamorphic.
Field identification & locations
Identified in the field by its interlocking, visible grains of quartz, feldspar, and mica. Found globally in shield areas and continental crustal roots.
