igneous
Red granite or granitic rock
Granite; predominantly quartz, feldspar, and mica, with iron-oxide staining
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectCoarse-grained, pink-red and gray, with a granular crystalline texture and typically vitreous quartz plus feldspar luster; Mohs hardness about 6–7, no prominent cleavage as a whole, and specific gravity about 2.6–2.7.
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Physical properties
Coarse-grained, pink-red and gray, with a granular crystalline texture and typically vitreous quartz plus feldspar luster; Mohs hardness about 6–7, no prominent cleavage as a whole, and specific gravity about 2.6–2.7.
Formation & geological history
A plutonic igneous rock formed by slow cooling of silica-rich magma deep in the crust, commonly during Precambrian to Phanerozoic continental magmatism. The reddish color generally reflects potassium feldspar and oxidation of iron-bearing minerals.
Uses & applications
Widely used as dimension stone, countertops, monuments, paving, aggregate, and landscaping rock; attractive hand specimens have modest collector appeal.
Geological facts
Granite is not a single mineral but an interlocking rock assemblage. Its visible crystals indicate slow underground cooling rather than volcanic eruption.
Field identification & locations
Identify it by visible interlocking pink feldspar, gray or glassy quartz, and dark mica or amphibole; it is common in continental mountain belts and old shields worldwide. The pictured specimen could also be weathered red granitic gneiss, which requires a fresh surface or thin section to confirm.
