igneous
Pink Granite
Felsic intrusive igneous rock (Quartz, K-feldspar, Plagioclase)
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Pink, reddish-pink, white, and grey; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained coarse crystals); Cleavage: Perfect in two directions for feldspar; Specific gravity: 2.63 to 2.75.
- Hardness
- 6-7 Mohs
- Color
- Pink, reddish-pink, white, and grey
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Pink, reddish-pink, white, and grey; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained coarse crystals); Cleavage: Perfect in two directions for feldspar; 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 comes from an abundance of potassium feldspar (orthoclase). Found in continental crust, often in mountain ranges or cratons.
Uses & applications
Widely used in construction, countertops, flooring, monuments, and as crushed stone for road bases. Also popular as a landscaping rock.
Geological facts
Granite is the most common igneous rock found on Earth's surface. The pink hue is specifically caused by the presence of Orthoclase (alkali feldspar), which is salmon-colored. It is often billion of years old.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its interlocking 'salt and pepper' (plus pink) crystal texture where individual mineral grains are visible to the naked eye. Found in areas with exposed batholiths like the Llano Uplift in Texas or the Scottish Highlands.
