igneous

Granite

Phaneritic Igneous Rock (composed of Quartz, Feldspar, and Mica)

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale. Color: Salt-and-pepper (white, grey, black). Luster: Vitreous to dull. Crystal structure: Phaneritic (large, visible interlocking crystals). Specific gravity: 2.63 to 2.75.

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale
Color: Salt-and-pepper (white, grey, black)
Luster: Vitreous to dull

Identified March 18, 2026More igneous →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface (intrusive). Most granites date from the Precambrian to the Cenozoic eras and form in continental crust environments.

Uses & applications

Extensively used in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stones, and monuments due to its durability and aesthetic appeal.

Geological facts

Granite makes up a large portion of the Earth's continental crust. Mount Rushmore and Yosemite's El Capitan are famous examples of granite formations.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its 'salt and pepper' look and visible crystalline texture. It is extremely common in mountain ranges and glacial deposits. It will not be scratched by a steel knife.

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

Magnetite

Iron(II,III) oxide (Fe3O4)

mineral

Blue Apatite

Apatite (Group), Ca5(PO4)3(F,Cl,OH)

mineral

Sodalite

Sodalite - Na8(Al6Si6O24)Cl2

mineral

Magnetite

Magnetite (Fe3O4)

mineral