igneous
Pink Granite (Unakite-bearing or Epidote-bearing Granite)
Plutonic Igneous Rock (Granite)
Phaneritic (coarse-grained) texture. Pink to reddish orthoclase/microcline feldspar, clear to translucent quartz, dark green biotite/amphibole, and yellowish-green epidote patches. Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale. Luster: vitreous to pearly.
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Luster
- vitreous to pearly
Identified More igneous →
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Physical properties
Phaneritic (coarse-grained) texture. Pink to reddish orthoclase/microcline feldspar, clear to translucent quartz, dark green biotite/amphibole, and yellowish-green epidote patches. Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale. Luster: vitreous to pearly.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow cooling and crystallization of silica-rich magma deep underground (plutonic environment). Secondary alteration like epidotization can occur from hydrothermal activity altering plagioclase feldspar into epidote.
Uses & applications
Used extensively as dimensional stone, building facades, counter tops, monuments, and crushed stone for road construction and concrete aggregate. Polished pieces are used in lapidary art.
Geological facts
Granite makes up a major portion of the Earth's continental crust. The pink color is primarily caused by potassium feldspar (orthoclase) containing trace amounts of iron. The green mineral present is epidote or chlorite.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its visible interlocking mineral grains of pink feldspar, quartz, and dark minerals, along with high hardness that scratches glass. Found abundantly in continental shield areas and batholiths worldwide.
