igneous
White granite
Granite, chiefly quartz–alkali feldspar–plagioclase with biotite/hornblende
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectCoarse-grained, speckled white-gray stone with interlocking crystals; quartz hardness 7, feldspar 6–6.5, vitreous to pearly luster, no preferred cleavage as a rock, density about 2.6–2.7 g/cm³.
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Physical properties
Coarse-grained, speckled white-gray stone with interlocking crystals; quartz hardness 7, feldspar 6–6.5, vitreous to pearly luster, no preferred cleavage as a rock, density about 2.6–2.7 g/cm³.
Formation & geological history
An intrusive felsic igneous rock formed by slow cooling of silica-rich magma deep in the crust, generally during Precambrian to Phanerozoic mountain-building events.
Uses & applications
Widely used for countertops, floor and wall tile, monuments, cladding, paving, and aggregate; polished slabs have modest decorative value.
Geological facts
The dark flecks are commonly biotite mica or hornblende, while translucent grains are quartz. Its visible interlocking texture distinguishes it from similarly colored marble or engineered stone.
Field identification & locations
Identify by randomly distributed black mica, gray/translucent quartz, and blocky white feldspar; it does not fizz readily with dilute acid. Common worldwide, including India, Brazil, China, Scandinavia, and the United States.
