igneous

Granite

Phaneritic Igneous Rock (primarily Quartz, Feldspar, and Mica)

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Grey, mottled white and black; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Crystal Structure: Phaneritic (medium-grained crystalline); Cleavage: Individual minerals have cleavage but rock breaks irregularly; Specific Gravity: 2.63-2.75

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale
Color: Grey, mottled white and black
Luster: Dull to vitreous

Identified May 26, 2026More igneous →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface (intrusive). It is a major component of the continental crust, with some deposits dating back billions of years to the Precambrian era.

Uses & applications

Used extensively in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stones, and memorial monuments due to its durability and aesthetic appeal.

Geological facts

Granite is one of the hardest substances in the world. It is so durable that it was used to build the Great Pyramid of Giza's King's Chamber and many ancient temples in India.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its 'salt and pepper' appearance and visible interlocking crystals. Common in mountain ranges and shields. Collectors should look for unique mineral inclusions like garnet or tourmaline within the matrix.

Other igneous specimens

See all

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

Dalmatian Jasper

Aplite with Arfvedsonite inclusions

igneous

Magnetite

Iron(II,III) oxide (Fe3O4)

mineral

Blue Apatite

Apatite (Group), Ca5(PO4)3(F,Cl,OH)

mineral

Sodalite

Sodalite - Na8(Al6Si6O24)Cl2

mineral