igneous
Granite
Phaneritic plutonic felsic rock
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Mottled white, pink, gray, and black; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained visible crystals); Cleavage: Primarily dictated by feldspar components; Specific gravity: 2.63 to 2.75
- Hardness
- 6-7 Mohs
- Color
- Mottled white, pink, gray, and black
- Luster
- Vitreous to pearly
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Mottled white, pink, gray, and black; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained visible crystals); Cleavage: Primarily dictated by feldspar components; Specific gravity: 2.63 to 2.75
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow subterranean cooling of silica-rich magma (plutonic) within the Earth's crust. It is primarily found in continental crust and can range in age from the Precambrian era to the Cenozoic.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stones, and memorial monuments due to its durability and aesthetic appeal.
Geological facts
Granite makes up the majority of the Earth's continental crust. Mount Rushmore is carved into a massive granite batholith, and the rock is known for its ability to withstand significant weathering over thousands of years.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its speckled, 'salt and pepper' appearance and visible interlocking crystals of quartz, feldspar, and mica. It is commonly found in mountain ranges and shield regions like the Canadian Shield or the Appalachians.
