igneous
Pink granite
Granite; quartz–alkali feldspar–plagioclase–biotite assemblage
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectCoarse-grained, pink, gray, and black speckled rock with visible quartz and feldspar; interlocking crystals, glassy quartz luster, Mohs hardness about 6–7, weak or absent cleavage as a whole, and specific gravity around 2.6–2.7.
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Physical properties
Coarse-grained, pink, gray, and black speckled rock with visible quartz and feldspar; interlocking crystals, glassy quartz luster, Mohs hardness about 6–7, weak or absent cleavage as a whole, and specific gravity around 2.6–2.7.
Formation & geological history
An intrusive felsic igneous rock formed by slow cooling of silica-rich magma deep in the crust, commonly during Precambrian to Mesozoic plutonic events. The specimen may show weathering and fractures, including dark biotite-rich patches or cavities.
Uses & applications
Widely used as building stone, countertops, monuments, paving, crushed aggregate, and landscaping rock; attractive hand specimens have modest collector value.
Geological facts
Its pink color generally comes from potassium feldspar, while quartz appears gray or translucent and biotite forms black flakes. Granite is the coarse-grained equivalent of volcanic rhyolite.
Field identification & locations
Identify it by the large interlocking crystals and pink feldspar, unlike fine-grained volcanic rocks; a streak test is usually white, and acid produces no fizz. Common worldwide in continental shields and mountain batholiths, including New England, the Canadian Shield, Scandinavia, and India.
