igneous
Granodiorite
Granodiorite (Intermediate intrusive igneous rock)
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale. Color: Salt and pepper (mottled gray, white, and black). Luster: Phaneritic (crystalline). Crystal structure: Coarse-grained granular. Cleavage: Good in feldspar minerals. Specific gravity: 2.6-2.7.
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Salt and pepper (mottled gray, white, and black)
- Luster
- Phaneritic (crystalline)
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale. Color: Salt and pepper (mottled gray, white, and black). Luster: Phaneritic (crystalline). Crystal structure: Coarse-grained granular. Cleavage: Good in feldspar minerals. Specific gravity: 2.6-2.7.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the slow crystallization of magma deep underneath the Earth's surface (plutonic). It is typically associated with subduction zones and volcanic arcs. Most visible specimens date from the Phanerozoic eon.
Uses & applications
Extensively used as crushed stone for road construction and as ornamental dimension stone (sold as 'white granite') for countertops, flooring, and curbing.
Geological facts
Granodiorite is the main component of the Sierra Nevada batholith. The famous Rosetta Stone was carved from granodiorite, not basalt as originally thought.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its phaneritic texture containing more plagioclase feldspar than orthoclase. It appears slightly darker than true granite. Commonly found in large mountain ranges and glacial deposits.
