igneous
Pink Granite
Phaneritic plutonic rock (Felsic)
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Pink, salmon, or peach with black and white mottling; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Structure: Phaneritic (visible crystals); Cleavage: Perfect in two directions for the feldspar component.
- Hardness
- 6-7 Mohs
- Color
- Pink, salmon, or peach with black and white mottling
- Luster
- Dull to vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Pink, salmon, or peach with black and white mottling; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Structure: Phaneritic (visible crystals); Cleavage: Perfect in two directions for the feldspar component.
Formation & geological history
Formed by the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface. The pink color is primarily caused by an abundance of potassium feldspar (orthoclase). These formations can be billions of years old.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stones, curbing, and monuments. Also popular as a decorative landscaping stone.
Geological facts
Granite makes up a large portion of the Earth's continental crust. The pink hue is specifically due to potassium-rich feldspar. Granite is one of the hardest and most durable common stones available.
Field identification & locations
Identify by the characteristic 'salt and pepper' look with a dominant pink/salmon base. It will scratch glass. Commonly found in mountainous regions or areas where ancient bedrock is exposed like the Canadian Shield or Scotland.
