igneous
Pink granite
Felsic intrusive igneous rock; quartz–alkali feldspar–plagioclase granite with biotite/hornblende
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectCoarse-grained, pink-gray and black; interlocking crystals with vitreous quartz and feldspar, dark biotite or amphibole. Mohs hardness is roughly 6–7; no consistent cleavage as a rock, though feldspar grains cleave; density about 2.6–2.7 g/cm³.
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
Coarse-grained, pink-gray and black; interlocking crystals with vitreous quartz and feldspar, dark biotite or amphibole. Mohs hardness is roughly 6–7; no consistent cleavage as a rock, though feldspar grains cleave; density about 2.6–2.7 g/cm³.
Formation & geological history
Formed when silica-rich magma cooled slowly deep underground, allowing large crystals to grow; typically Precambrian to Phanerozoic in age, depending on locality.
Uses & applications
Widely used as dimension stone, countertops, monuments, flooring, crushed aggregate, and landscaping stone; attractive polished pieces are collectible but usually modestly valued.
Geological facts
The pink color generally comes from potassium feldspar, while dark flakes or crystals are commonly biotite or hornblende. Its coarse texture indicates intrusive rather than volcanic cooling.
Field identification & locations
Identify it by visible interlocking quartz, pink/white feldspar, and black mica or amphibole; a glassy quartz grain and lack of layering distinguish it from many sedimentary rocks. Common worldwide in continental mountain belts and granite plutons.
