igneous
Granite
Granite (Felsic intrusive igneous rock)
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pink, white, and grey mottled appearance; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained) containing quartz, feldspar, and mica; Specific gravity: 2.63 to 2.75.
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Pink, white, and grey mottled appearance
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pink, white, and grey mottled appearance; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained) containing quartz, feldspar, and mica; Specific gravity: 2.63 to 2.75.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface (intrusive). Most granite was formed during the Precambrian to Cenozoic eras in continental crust environments.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stone, monuments, and as crushed stone for road base.
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 in the field by its 'salt and pepper' appearance and visible interlocking crystals. It is found globally in mountainous regions and continental shields like the Canadian Shield.
