igneous
Pink Granite
Granite (composed of Potassium Feldspar, Quartz, and Plagioclase)
Mohs hardness: 6 to 7. Color: Pinkish-red to salmon pink with translucent quartz and dark biotite or hornblende inclusions. Luster: Dull to vitreous. Texture: Phaneritic (coarse-grained, visible interlocking crystals). Specific gravity: ~2.63-2.75.
- Hardness
- 6 to 7
- Luster
- Dull to vitreous
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Physical properties
Mohs hardness: 6 to 7. Color: Pinkish-red to salmon pink with translucent quartz and dark biotite or hornblende inclusions. Luster: Dull to vitreous. Texture: Phaneritic (coarse-grained, visible interlocking crystals). Specific gravity: ~2.63-2.75.
Formation & geological history
Plutonic intrusive igneous formation. Formed by the slow crystallization of silica-rich felsic magma deep beneath the Earth's surface over millions of years, later exposed by erosion and rounded by glacial or fluvial activity.
Uses & applications
Extensively used as a dimension stone, decorative landscaping boulder, building material, countertop surface, monument, and crushed stone aggregate.
Geological facts
The pink hue in granite comes specifically from potassium-rich orthoclase feldspar. Granite makes up a large portion of the Earth's continental crust and is one of the most durable natural stones available.
Field identification & locations
Identified in the field by its coarse-grained interlocking matrix of pink feldspar, glassy gray quartz, and dark mineral flecks, along with its high hardness (scratches glass). Very common worldwide, especially in continental cratons and mountain ranges.
