igneous
Pegmatite
Igneous Pegmatite
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectMohs hardness varies from 6 to 7 depending on mineral content; colors include pink, white, and gray; vitreous luster; coarse-grained crystal structure with exceptionally large crystals.
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Physical properties
Mohs hardness varies from 6 to 7 depending on mineral content; colors include pink, white, and gray; vitreous luster; coarse-grained crystal structure with exceptionally large crystals.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow-cooling, water-rich residual melts of magma chambers deep within the Earth's crust.
Uses & applications
Source of rare-earth elements, industrial minerals like feldspar and mica, and gem-quality crystals.
Geological facts
Pegmatites can host the largest individual crystals found on Earth, sometimes measuring many meters in length.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its extremely coarse interlocking crystals and common association with granitic intrusions.
