igneous
Pink Granite
Granite (Phaneritic igneous rock)
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale. Color: Pink, reddish-pink, white, and grey speckled. Luster: Vitreous to dull. Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained) with visible crystals of potassium feldspar, quartz, and mica. Cleavage: Indistinct on the rock mass, but feldspars show two directions at 90 degrees.
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Pink, reddish-pink, white, and grey speckled
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale. Color: Pink, reddish-pink, white, and grey speckled. Luster: Vitreous to dull. Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained) with visible crystals of potassium feldspar, quartz, and mica. Cleavage: Indistinct on the rock mass, but feldspars show two directions at 90 degrees.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface (intrusive). The pink color is derived from a high concentration of orthoclase (potassium) feldspar. These rocks can be hundreds of millions to billions of years old.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stones, curbing, and monuments. Also used as crushed stone for road base and railroad ballast.
Geological facts
Granite is the primary component of Earth's continental crust. El Capitan in Yosemite National Park is one of the world's most famous granitic monoliths.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its 'salt and pepper' or speckled appearance and coarse grain where individual crystals are visible to the naked eye. Found in continental mountain ranges and shield areas globally.
