igneous
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: mottled pink, red, gray, and white; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Structure: Granular (phaneritic); Cleavage: none, but minerals within it have specific cleavage.
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- mottled pink, red, gray, and white
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: mottled pink, red, gray, and white; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Structure: Granular (phaneritic); Cleavage: none, but minerals within it have specific cleavage.
Formation & geological history
Formed by the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface. This specimen appears to be a water-worn river or beach cobble, likely Precambrian or Paleozoic in age.
Uses & applications
Used extensively as a construction material, dimension stone, countertops, paving, and as decorative landscape rocks.
Geological facts
Granite is the primary component of the Earth's continental crust. It contains high amounts of silica, being at least 20 percent quartz by volume.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its visible interlocking crystals of feldspar (pink/red), quartz (gray/white), and mica (black). Commonly found in mountain ranges and glaciated plains.
