igneous
Pink granite
Granite; predominantly quartz, K-feldspar, plagioclase, and biotite/hornblende
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectCoarse-grained, massive rock with salmon-pink feldspar, whitish quartz, and black mafic minerals; vitreous quartz and feldspar luster, Mohs hardness about 6–7, with no dominant cleavage as a whole. The rounded surface appears naturally weathered or water-worn.
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Physical properties
Coarse-grained, massive rock with salmon-pink feldspar, whitish quartz, and black mafic minerals; vitreous quartz and feldspar luster, Mohs hardness about 6–7, with no dominant cleavage as a whole. The rounded surface appears naturally weathered or water-worn.
Formation & geological history
A felsic intrusive igneous rock formed by slow crystallization of silica-rich magma deep in the crust, commonly during Precambrian to Phanerozoic plutonic events. Weathering and erosion later rounded the specimen.
Uses & applications
Used widely as dimension stone, countertops, paving, monuments, aggregate, and architectural material; attractive pieces are collected as decorative stones.
Geological facts
The pink color mainly reflects iron-bearing potassium feldspar, while dark patches are biotite or hornblende. The specimen may also be a closely related pink granitic pegmatite or porphyritic granite.
Field identification & locations
Identify it by visible interlocking crystals, abundant pink feldspar, gray-clear quartz, and scattered black minerals; unlike sandstone, it lacks bedding and unlike marble, it is not sugary calcite. Common worldwide in continental shield and mountain plutons.
