igneous
Weathered feldspar-rich rock, likely granite fragment
Granite or feldspar-rich pegmatitic rock; mainly potassium feldspar (orthoclase/microcline), quartz, and minor mica
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectTan-orange, coarse crystalline and unevenly fractured, with a dull to vitreous luster; feldspar hardness ~6 Mohs, quartz ~7, with two cleavage directions in feldspar. The small specimen appears weathered and may show iron staining.
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Physical properties
Tan-orange, coarse crystalline and unevenly fractured, with a dull to vitreous luster; feldspar hardness ~6 Mohs, quartz ~7, with two cleavage directions in feldspar. The small specimen appears weathered and may show iron staining.
Formation & geological history
Likely formed by slow cooling of silica-rich magma deep in the crust, producing interlocking crystals; most granites are Precambrian to Phanerozoic, but this fragment’s age cannot be determined visually.
Uses & applications
Granite is widely used as dimension stone, countertops, aggregate, monuments, and tiles; feldspar is also used in ceramics and glass. This small fragment has negligible commercial value.
Geological facts
The orange color commonly comes from iron oxidation along feldspar surfaces or fractures. A hand lens should reveal blocky feldspar grains, gray or clear quartz, and possibly dark mica.
Field identification & locations
Common in continental crust and exposed granite terrains worldwide, including the United States, Canada, India, and Europe. Identify it by its visibly interlocking grains and scratch resistance; exact identification requires testing or microscopy.
