igneous
Pink Granite
Phaneritic Felsic Igneous Rock
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pink, orange-tan, with black and grey specks; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained); Cleavage: Distinct in feldspar components; Specific gravity: 2.63 to 2.75
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Pink, orange-tan, with black and grey specks
- Luster
- Dull to vitreous
Identified More igneous →
Explore Pink Granite in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pink, orange-tan, with black and grey specks; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained); Cleavage: Distinct in feldspar components; Specific gravity: 2.63 to 2.75
Formation & geological history
Formed by the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface. This specimen contains a high proportion of potassium feldspar (orthoclase), which gives it the distinct pinkish-tan hue. It typically forms in continental crustal environments.
Uses & applications
Used widely in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stones, and monuments. Also used as crushed stone for road base and railroad ballast.
Geological facts
Granite is one of the most common rocks on the Earth's surface, making up much of the continental crust. The pink color is specifically due to the presence of K-feldspar rather than just plagioclase feldspar.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its interlocking mineral grains of quartz (glassy), feldspar (pink/white), and biotite or hornblende (black). It is a durable rock found in mountain ranges and glacial deposits.
