igneous
Granite
Intrusive Felsic Igneous Rock
Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs scale); Color: Pink to orange (potassium feldspar), gray/clear (quartz), and black (mica); Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained); Specific gravity: 2.65-2.75
- Hardness
- 6-7 (Mohs scale)
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs scale); Color: Pink to orange (potassium feldspar), gray/clear (quartz), and black (mica); Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained); Specific gravity: 2.65-2.75
Formation & geological history
Formed through the slow crystallization of magma below the Earth's surface (plutonic). It is typically found in continental crust and can range from Archean to Cenozoic in age.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in construction, countertops, floor tiles, paving stones, and as a dimension stone for monuments and sculptures.
Geological facts
Granite makes up a large portion of the Earth's continental crust. It is one of the hardest and most durable natural stones, which is why it has been used since ancient Egyptian times for obelisks and pyramids.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its interlocking granular texture where individual minerals (quartz, feldspar, biotite) are visible to the naked eye. It is found in mountain ranges and continental shields worldwide. Use a hand lens to look for the distinct cleavage planes in the feldspar grains.
