igneous
Granite
Felsic intrusive igneous rock
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: typically mottled pink, white, gray, and black; Luster: dull to vitreous; Structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained) crystalline; Cleavage: none (irregular fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.63 to 2.75
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- typically mottled pink, white, gray, and black
- Luster
- dull to vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: typically mottled pink, white, gray, and black; Luster: dull to vitreous; Structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained) crystalline; Cleavage: none (irregular fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.63 to 2.75
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface. It is a major component of the continental crust, primarily formed during mountain-building events over billions of years.
Uses & applications
Widely used in construction, countertops, floor tiles, paving stones, curbing, monuments, and as crushed stone for road base.
Geological facts
Granite is one of the hardest and most durable rocks on Earth. The base of the Statue of Liberty is made from granite, and it makes up the bulk of the peaks in the Sierra Nevada mountains.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its 'salt and pepper' appearance and visible interlocking crystals of quartz, feldspar, and mica. It is found in mountain ranges and continental shields worldwide. Use a magnifying glass to see the distinct mineral grains.
