igneous
Pink Granite
Phaneritic Felsic Igneous Rock
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale. Color: Mottled pink, white, gray, and black. Luster: Dull to vitreous. Crystal Structure: Phaneritic (visible crystals). Composition: Orthoclase feldspar, quartz, and small amounts of biotite or hornblende.
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Mottled pink, white, gray, and black
- Luster
- Dull to vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale. Color: Mottled pink, white, gray, and black. Luster: Dull to vitreous. Crystal Structure: Phaneritic (visible crystals). Composition: Orthoclase feldspar, quartz, and small amounts of biotite or hornblende.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow cooling of silica-rich magma deep underground (intrusive). The pink color comes from potassium-rich orthoclase feldspar. Geological age can range from billions of years (Precambrian) to much more recent orogenic events.
Uses & applications
Used extensively in construction for countertops, monuments, and curbing. Small tumbled pieces are common in landscaping or as collector specimens.
Geological facts
Granite makes up a large portion of the Earth's continental crust. The pink hue is specifically caused by the presence of K-feldspar, which often dominates the rock's mineralogy in these specimens.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its 'salt and pepper' look mixed with pink salmon tones. It is very hard and will scratch glass. Commonly found in mountainous regions or glacial till areas.
