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Mineral Properties
Granite is the hardest stone that humans use for building. A rock or mineral's hardness is measured using the Mohs scale. Granite has a measurement of seven out of 10 on the Mohs scale. Granite also has a dense grain content. This makes it impervious to stain and resistant to wear, and gives it high load-bearing capabilities. Granite is almost entirely non-porous and does not readily absorb water.
Components
Granite is basically an igneous rock, a type formed when lava or magma from volcanoes cools and hardens. Granite is composed of coarse grains from metamorphic and igneous rocks and minerals, including quartz, feldspar, kriolite, chlorite and garnet. The color of granite is determined by the rocks and minerals that make it up. Granite colors include shades of red, brown, beige, black and gray.
Where It Is Found
Granite is typically collected by quarrying. It can be found throughout the world. Some countries have many granite quarries or are well known for the granite they produce. These countries include Argentina, Brazil, Spain, China, India, Italy, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, parts of Scandinavia, Ukraine and the United States.
Uses
Granite has many uses. This is particularly true in the world of construction. Builders use granite blocks, slabs and tiles to create and cover structures. Granite counter tops in home kitchens last a long time, are highly decorative when polished and are resistant to damage and wear. Granite is also used for gravestones and other monuments because it lasts a long time and resists the elements. Granite may also be cut and polished to create decorative pieces such as small sculptures, bookends and paperweights.