igneous

Granite

Granite (High-silica plutonic rock)

Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: White, gray, pink, with black/brown specks; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained); Cleavage: Distinct in feldspars, none in quartz; Specific gravity: 2.63 - 2.75

Hardness: 6-7 Mohs
Color: White, gray, pink, with black/brown specks
Luster: Vitreous to pearly

Identified May 23, 2026More igneous →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed from the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface. Typical of continental crust formation throughout geological history, especially during orogenic events.

Uses & applications

Extensively used in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stone, monuments, and as crushed stone for road base.

Geological facts

Granite is the most common igneous rock found on Earth's continents and makes up the core of many mountain ranges. The name comes from the Latin 'granum', meaning a grain, in reference to its coarse-grained structure.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its interlocking 'salt and pepper' appearance of quartz, feldspar, and mica minerals. Commonly found in massive plutons and batholiths in continental shields.

Other igneous specimens

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Blue Apatite

Fluorapatite (Ca5(PO4)3F)

mineral

Dark Igneous Rock (Likely Basalt or Diabase)

Basalt (extrusive igneous rock) or Diabase (intrusive igneous rock - also known as Dolerite), largely composed of plagioclase feldspar, pyroxene (augite), and sometimes olivine and amphibole. Exact mineralogy would require thin section analysis.

Igneous