sedimentary

Granitic Sand

Detrital sediment (predominantly Quartz, Feldspar, and Mica)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 6-7 (quartz/feldspar), 2-3 (mica); Color: Salt and pepper (pink, white, black, grey); Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Structure: Granular/Fragmental; Cleavage: Perfect in mica flakes.

Hardness: 6-7 (quartz/feldspar), 2-3 (mica)
Color: Salt and pepper (pink, white, black, grey)
Luster: Vitreous to pearly

Identified February 22, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6-7 (quartz/feldspar), 2-3 (mica); Color: Salt and pepper (pink, white, black, grey); Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Structure: Granular/Fragmental; Cleavage: Perfect in mica flakes.

Formation & geological history

Formed through the mechanical and chemical weathering of granitic igneous rock. As the parent granite breaks down over thousands of years, harder minerals like quartz and feldspar remain as sand grains.

Uses & applications

Used in construction for concrete and mortar, as a soil amendment in gardening (decomposed granite), and for traction on icy roads.

Geological facts

This sand is essentially 'granite in transition.' The presence of shiny flakes indicates muscovite or biotite mica, which are often mistaken for gold by novice prospectors (Fool's Gold).

Field identification & locations

Identify by the presence of glassy quartz, opaque pink/white feldspar, and shiny flat mica flakes. Commonly found in dry riverbeds or at the base of eroding mountain ranges.