igneous
Red Granite
Felsic Plutonic Rock (Granite)
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Pinkish-red with black and white mottling; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained); Specific gravity: 2.63 to 2.75.
- Hardness
- 6-7 Mohs
- Color
- Pinkish-red with black and white mottling
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Pinkish-red with black and white mottling; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained); Specific gravity: 2.63 to 2.75.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow subterranean cooling of silica-rich magma (felsic). The red color is typically due to an abundance of potassium feldspar (orthoclase). These formations can date back hundreds of millions to billions of years.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stones, curbing, and as monument stone for memorials due to its durability.
Geological facts
Granite makes up a large portion of the Earth's continental crust. Enchanted Rock in Texas and the monuments of Ancient Egypt are famous examples of granite use.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its interlocking granular texture and the presence of quartz (clear/grey) alongside pink feldspar and dark biotite or hornblende. Commonly found in mountain ranges and continental shields.
