igneous
Granite
Intrusive Igneous Rock
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale. Color: Varies widely (pink, white, gray, black) depending on mineral content. Luster: Vitreous to dull. Crystal structure: Phaneric (coarse-grained), interlocking crystals of quartz, feldspar, and mica. Cleavage: Good cleavage in feldspars. Specific gravity: 2.65 - 2.75.
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale. Color: Varies widely (pink, white, gray, black) depending on mineral content. Luster: Vitreous to dull. Crystal structure: Phaneric (coarse-grained), interlocking crystals of quartz, feldspar, and mica. Cleavage: Good cleavage in feldspars. Specific gravity: 2.65 - 2.75.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow crystallization of magma below the Earth's surface over millions of years. Predominantly composed of quartz, alkali feldspar, and plagioclase.
Uses & applications
Widely used in construction, monuments, flooring, countertops, and architectural facing.
Geological facts
Granite is the most common rock of the Earth's continental crust. Its name comes from the Latin granum, a grain, in reference to the coarse-grained texture of such a holocrystalline rock.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its visible interlocking mineral grains, primarily quartz and feldspar, found globally in continental shields and mountain ranges.
