igneous
Pink Granite
Granite (Phaneritic felsic intrusive igneous rock)
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Pink, fleshy-red, grey, and white mottled patterns; Luster: Dull to pearly (vitreous on fresh surfaces); Crystal Structure: Phaneritic (visible coarse-grained crystals of quartz, potassium feldspar, and plagioclase); Cleavage: Poor; Specific Gravity: 2.63 to 2.75.
- Hardness
- 6-7 Mohs
- Color
- Pink, fleshy-red, grey, and white mottled patterns
- Luster
- Dull to pearly (vitreous on fresh surfaces)
Identified More igneous →
Explore Pink Granite in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Pink, fleshy-red, grey, and white mottled patterns; Luster: Dull to pearly (vitreous on fresh surfaces); Crystal Structure: Phaneritic (visible coarse-grained crystals of quartz, potassium feldspar, and plagioclase); Cleavage: Poor; Specific Gravity: 2.63 to 2.75.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow cooling of silica-rich magma deep beneath the Earth's surface (plutonic formation). The pink hue is caused by a high concentration of potassium feldspar (orthoclase). These rocks are typically from the Precambrian to Cenozoic eras.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in construction for countertops, floor tiles, and curbing. Also used for monuments, gravestones, and as decorative landscaping stone due to its durability and aesthetic appeal.
Geological facts
Granite makes up a large portion of the Earth's continental crust. The color of granite is a direct result of the mineral proportions; pink granite specifically indicates an abundance of K-feldspar over plagioclase feldspar.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its 'salt and pepper' or mottled texture and the presence of visible interlocking crystals. It will not be scratched by a steel knife. Commonly found in mountainous regions or glacial till. Collectors should look for unique mineral inclusions like mica or hornblende flakes.
