igneous
Pegmatite
Igneous Pegmatite
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness 6-7 on Mohs scale, coarse-grained texture with exceptionally large crystals, variable color often white, gray, or pink depending on feldspar content, vitreous luster.
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Physical properties
Hardness 6-7 on Mohs scale, coarse-grained texture with exceptionally large crystals, variable color often white, gray, or pink depending on feldspar content, vitreous luster.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the water-rich residual melts of crystallizing magma chambers deep within the Earth's crust, often during the late stages of magmatic activity.
Uses & applications
Source of rare earth elements, industrial minerals like quartz and feldspar, and gemstone-quality crystals such as tourmaline, beryl, and spodumene.
Geological facts
Pegmatites can host some of the largest known individual mineral crystals in the world, sometimes measuring several meters in length.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified in the field by its interlocking, giant crystal matrix compared to surrounding finer-grained host rocks like granite; found globally in ancient orogenic belts.
