igneous
Pink Granite
Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock (Feldspar-Quartz-Mica)
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Pink, reddish-brown, white, and gray; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained); Composition: Orthoclase feldspar, quartz, and biotite mica.
- Hardness
- 6-7 Mohs
- Color
- Pink, reddish-brown, white, and gray
- 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 Mohs; Color: Pink, reddish-brown, white, and gray; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained); Composition: Orthoclase feldspar, quartz, and biotite mica.
Formation & geological history
Formed by the slow cooling of silica-rich magma deep underground (plutonic). This specimen likely dates to the Precambrian or Paleozoic eras depending on the specific batholith regional origin.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stones, monuments, and as crushed stone for road base. Large boulders are used for landscaping and riprap.
Geological facts
The pink color is caused by an abundance of potassium feldspar (orthoclase). Granite makes up a large portion of the Earth's continental crust and is resistant to weathering.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its interlocking visible crystals and lack of foliation. To distinguish it in the field, look for the 'salt and pepper' appearance with pinkish hues and the presence of translucent quartz grains that scratch glass.
