igneous
Granite
Granite
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Gray, pink, white, or buff mottled with darker spots; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained) containing quartz, feldspar, and mica; Specific gravity: 2.63 - 2.75.
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Gray, pink, white, or buff mottled with darker spots
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Gray, pink, white, or buff mottled with darker spots; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained) containing quartz, feldspar, and mica; Specific gravity: 2.63 - 2.75.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface. This intrusive rock is common in continental crust and often dates to the Precambrian or Paleozoic eras in crystalline basement complexes like the Arabo-Nubian Shield.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in construction, architectural facades, countertops, monuments, and as crushed stone for road base and concrete aggregate.
Geological facts
Granite is the most common igneous rock found at the Earth's surface. The coordinates provided (Northern Somalia/Somaliland) align with the geological presence of the Arabo-Nubian Shield, which features extensive granitic basement rocks.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its speckled, coarse appearance where individual crystals of quartz (clear/gray), feldspar (white/pink), and dark mica are visible to the naked eye. It is extremely durable and resists weathering better than sedimentary rocks.
