igneous
Pink granite
Granite, a quartz–feldspar plutonic rock
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectCoarse-grained, pink to orange and gray; commonly contains quartz, potassium feldspar, plagioclase, and dark mica or amphibole. Hardness is roughly 6–7 Mohs; crystals are interlocking, with no prominent cleavage as a whole, and luster is generally vitreous to dull.
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Physical properties
Coarse-grained, pink to orange and gray; commonly contains quartz, potassium feldspar, plagioclase, and dark mica or amphibole. Hardness is roughly 6–7 Mohs; crystals are interlocking, with no prominent cleavage as a whole, and luster is generally vitreous to dull.
Formation & geological history
Granite crystallizes slowly from silica-rich magma deep in continental crust, typically during Precambrian to Phanerozoic mountain-building events. The specimen appears weathered or partly altered, with iron-oxide staining producing orange-red patches.
Uses & applications
Used as dimension stone, countertops, monuments, paving, aggregate, and decorative landscaping rock; attractive pieces are collected but are usually low-value.
Geological facts
The pink color typically comes from potassium feldspar, while glassy gray grains are quartz. Granite is an intrusive igneous equivalent of rhyolite, which cools rapidly at the surface.
Field identification & locations
Identify it by visible interlocking pink feldspar, gray translucent quartz, and minor black mica; a knife generally will not scratch fresh grains. Common worldwide, especially in continental shields and mountain belts.
