igneous
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Salt and pepper (white, grey, black); Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained); Cleavage: Improper (fractures); Specific gravity: 2.63 to 2.75
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Salt and pepper (white, grey, black)
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Salt and pepper (white, grey, black); Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained); Cleavage: Improper (fractures); Specific gravity: 2.63 to 2.75
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface. Primarily composed of quartz and feldspar with minor amounts of mica and amphiboles. Can date back billions of years to the Archean Eon.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stone, curbing, and monuments due to its durability.
Geological facts
Granite makes up a large portion of the Earth's continental crust. Mount Rushmore is carved into a granite batholith in the Black Hills of South Dakota.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its coarse-grained texture where individual mineral crystals (pink/white feldspar, glassy quartz, black mica) are visible to the naked eye. Found globally in plutonic bodies.
