igneous
Pink Granite
Phaneritic Igneous Rock (high K-Feldspar content)
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pink, reddish-orange, and grey; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarsegrained); Composition: Quartz, Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase), and minor Plagioclase/Mica.
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Pink, reddish-orange, and grey
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pink, reddish-orange, and grey; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarsegrained); Composition: Quartz, Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase), and minor Plagioclase/Mica.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface (intrusive). The pink color is derived from an abundance of potassium feldspar. Typically associated with continental crust and mountain-building events.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stones, and monuments. Also used as crushed stone or 'riprap' for erosion control.
Geological facts
Pink granite is the state rock of New Hampshire. It is one of the most common basement rocks of continents. The pink hue is specifically caused by the chemical element Potassium within the feldspar crystals.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its coarse interlocking crystals and the dominance of pink/red feldspar over other minerals. It will not be scratched by a steel knife but can scratch glass. Common in Shield areas or mountainous regions like the Rockies or Appalachians.
