Igneous
Pink Granite
Felsic Plutonic Rock (primarily Quartz, Potassium Feldspar, and Plagioclase)
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Mottled pink, white, gray, and black; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained visible crystals); Cleavage: Perfect on feldspar grains, none on quartz grains; Specific gravity: 2.63 - 2.75
- Hardness
- 6-7 Mohs
- Color
- Mottled pink, white, gray, and black
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Mottled pink, white, gray, and black; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained visible crystals); Cleavage: Perfect on feldspar grains, none on quartz grains; Specific gravity: 2.63 - 2.75
Formation & geological history
Formed through the slow cooling of silica-rich magma deep within the Earth's crust (intrusive). They are typically found in continental crustal plates and can range in age from billions of years (Precambrian) to relatively recent geological eras.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in construction as dimension stone, countertops, floor tiles, and outdoor monuments. It is also crushed for use in road base and rail ballast, and occasionally used for lapidary work.
Geological facts
Granite makes up a large portion of the Earth's continental crust. The pink color specifically comes from an abundance of potassium feldspar (orthoclase). Mount Rushmore is carved into a massive granite batholith.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its 'salt and pepper' look with pink hues and visible interlocking crystals. It is ubiquitous in mountainous regions and glacial till. Collectors look for unique mineral inclusions or large phenocrysts (porphyritic texture).
