igneous
Red Granite
Phaneritic Felsic Igneous Rock (Granite)
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Salmon pink and red with grey quartz inclusions; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained); Specific gravity: 2.63-2.75
- Hardness
- 6-7 Mohs
- Color
- Salmon pink and red with grey quartz inclusions
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Salmon pink and red with grey quartz inclusions; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained); Specific gravity: 2.63-2.75
Formation & geological history
Formed by the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface. High in potassium feldspar which provides the red color. Typically Proterozoic to Phanerozoic in age.
Uses & applications
Construction (countertops, tiles), dimension stone for monuments, and aggregate for road base.
Geological facts
The red color is caused by hematite (iron oxide) inclusions or high concentrations of orthoclase feldspar. Granite is a major component of the Earth's continental crust.
Field identification & locations
Look for interlocking crystals of pink/red feldspar and translucent grey quartz. Found globally in mountainous regions and shield areas like Canada or Brazil.
