igneous
Pink Granite
Phaneritic Felsic Igneous Rock (high K-feldspar)
Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs scale); Color: Pink, red, grey, and black; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained); Cleavage: Distinct in feldspars; Specific Gravity: 2.63 to 2.75
- Hardness
- 6-7 (Mohs scale)
- Color
- Pink, red, grey, and black
- Luster
- Dull to vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs scale); Color: Pink, red, grey, and black; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained); Cleavage: Distinct in feldspars; Specific Gravity: 2.63 to 2.75
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow cooling of silica-rich magma deep underground (plutonic). The pink color is due to a high abundance of Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase). Common in continental crust and mountain ranges from various geological eras.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in construction for countertops, monuments, paving, and architectural cladding. Smaller, colorful specimens are often used as decorative landscaping stones or aquarium decor.
Geological facts
Granite makes up a large portion of the Earth's continental crust. Enchanted Rock in Texas and the peaks of the Sierra Nevada are famous examples of massive granite formations. The pink hue specifically indicates secondary alteration or high orthoclase content.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its interlocking crystalline texture and visible grains of pink feldspar, clear quartz, and dark biotite or hornblende. Commonly found in glaciated regions as 'glacial erratics' or in areas with exposed Precambrian shields.
