igneous
Pink Granite (Alkali Feldspar Granite)
Granite (rich in Potassium Feldspar / Orthoclase)
Hardness 6-7 on Mohs scale; pink to salmon-red colored due to potassium feldspar, with specks of clear-to-white quartz and dark biotite/amphibole; vitreous to pearly luster; phaneritic (coarse-grained) crystalline texture; specific gravity approx 2.65-2.75.
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Physical properties
Hardness 6-7 on Mohs scale; pink to salmon-red colored due to potassium feldspar, with specks of clear-to-white quartz and dark biotite/amphibole; vitreous to pearly luster; phaneritic (coarse-grained) crystalline texture; specific gravity approx 2.65-2.75.
Formation & geological history
Formed by the slow cooling and crystallization of felsic magma deep beneath the Earth's crust (intrusive igneous). Ages range from Precambrian to Cenozoic depending on location.
Uses & applications
Extensively used as a dimension stone in construction, kitchen countertops, monuments, curbing, and crushed stone for road base.
Geological facts
The distinctive pink color comes from orthoclase or microcline (potassium-rich feldspar). Granite makes up a large portion of Earth's continental crust.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its interlocking coarse-grained texture and dominant pink feldspar combined with glassy quartz. Extremely common worldwide in continental shield areas like the Canadian Shield, Scotland, and the Appalachian Mountains.
