Igneous

Granite

Granite (Phaneritic Igneous Rock)

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pink, white, gray, and black speckles; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained visible crystals); Cleavage: None (exhibits irregular fracture); Specific gravity: 2.63 to 2.75.

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale
Color: Pink, white, gray, and black speckles
Luster: Vitreous to dull

Identified March 5, 2026More igneous →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed from the slow cooling of silica-rich magma deep underground (plutonic formation). It is a major component of continental crust, with varying geological ages ranging from Archean to Cenozoic.

Uses & applications

Extensively used in construction (countertops, floor tiles, paving stones), dimension stone for monuments, and crushed stone for road base or railway ballast.

Geological facts

Granite makes up a large part of the Earth's continental crust. Yosemite National Park's famous Half Dome and El Capitan are massive granite monoliths carved by glacial activity.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its 'salt and pepper' appearance and visible interlocking crystals of quartz, feldspar, and mica. Found globally in mountainous regions and shield areas. Collectors look for unique phenocrysts (large crystals) or rare colors.

Other igneous specimens

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Blue Apatite

Fluorapatite (Ca5(PO4)3F)

mineral

Dark Igneous Rock (Likely Basalt or Diabase)

Basalt (extrusive igneous rock) or Diabase (intrusive igneous rock - also known as Dolerite), largely composed of plagioclase feldspar, pyroxene (augite), and sometimes olivine and amphibole. Exact mineralogy would require thin section analysis.

Igneous