igneous
Pink granite
Granite, chiefly quartz + feldspar + mica (commonly biotite); exact variety may be pink alkali-feldspar granite
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectCoarse-grained, speckled pink, gray, and black appearance; vitreous quartz and feldspar luster, interlocking crystals, and no cleavage as a whole. Mohs hardness is approximately 6–7; feldspar crystals show cleavage, and specific gravity is about 2.63–2.75.
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Physical properties
Coarse-grained, speckled pink, gray, and black appearance; vitreous quartz and feldspar luster, interlocking crystals, and no cleavage as a whole. Mohs hardness is approximately 6–7; feldspar crystals show cleavage, and specific gravity is about 2.63–2.75.
Formation & geological history
Forms when silica-rich magma cools slowly deep in the continental crust, allowing large crystals to grow; specimens may range from Precambrian to recent geologic ages. The rough surface appears naturally weathered or broken.
Uses & applications
Widely used as dimension stone, countertops, monuments, paving, aggregate, and decorative architectural stone; small hand specimens have modest collecting value.
Geological facts
The pink color usually comes from potassium feldspar, while black grains are typically biotite or hornblende and translucent grains are quartz. Granite is the intrusive equivalent of rhyolite.
Field identification & locations
Identify it by visible interlocking quartz, pink/white feldspar, and dark mica or amphibole grains; it is common in continental mountain belts and exposed batholiths worldwide. A fresh broken surface best reveals the texture.
