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{{short description|Type of igneous rock}} | {{short description|Type of igneous rock}} | ||
{{Other uses}} | {{hatnote group|{{Other uses}}}} | ||
{{use dmy dates|date=August 2025}} | |||
{{Infobox rock | {{Infobox rock | ||
|name = Granite | |name = Granite | ||
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|class=[[Felsic]]}} | |class=[[Felsic]]}} | ||
'''Granite''' ({{IPAc-en|ˈ|ɡ|r|æ|n|ɪ|t}} {{respell|GRAN|it}}) is a coarse-grained ([[phanerite|phaneritic]]) [[intrusive rock|intrusive]] [[igneous rock]] composed mostly of [[quartz]], [[alkali feldspar]], and [[plagioclase]]. It forms from [[magma]] with a high content of [[silica]] and [[alkali metal oxide]]s that slowly cools and solidifies underground. It is common in the [[continental crust]] of Earth, where it is found in [[igneous intrusion]]s. These range in size from [[dike (geology)|dike]]s only a few centimeters across to [[batholith]]s exposed over hundreds of square kilometers. | '''Granite''' ({{IPAc-en|ˈ|ɡ|r|æ|.|n|ɪ|t}}, {{respell|GRAN|it}}) is a coarse-grained ([[phanerite|phaneritic]]) [[intrusive rock|intrusive]] [[igneous rock]] composed mostly of [[quartz]], [[alkali feldspar]], [[mica]] and [[plagioclase]]. It forms from [[magma]] with a high content of [[silica]] and [[alkali metal oxide]]s that slowly cools and solidifies underground. It is common in the [[continental crust]] of Earth, where it is found in [[igneous intrusion]]s. These range in size from [[dike (geology)|dike]]s only a few centimeters across to [[batholith]]s exposed over hundreds of square kilometers. | ||
Granite is typical of a larger family of | Granite is typical of a larger family of granitic rocks, or [[granitoid]]s, that are composed mostly of coarse-grained quartz and feldspars in varying proportions. These rocks are classified by the relative percentages of quartz, alkali feldspar, and plagioclase (the [[QAPF diagram|QAPF classification]]), with true granite representing granitic rocks rich in quartz and alkali feldspar. Most granitic rocks also contain [[mica]] or [[amphibole]] minerals, though a few (known as [[leucogranite]]s) contain almost no dark minerals. | ||
Granite is nearly always massive (lacking any internal structures), hard (falling | Granite is nearly always massive (lacking any internal structures), hard (falling around 6.5 on the [[Mohs hardness scale]]),<ref name="JMWE">{{cite journal |last1=Anikoh |last2=Adiseda |last3=Afolabi |title=Investigation of Physical and Mechanical Properties of Selected Rock Types in Kogi State Using Hardness Tests |journal=Journal of Mining World Express |date=January 2015 |volume=4 |page=37 |doi=10.14355/mwe.2015.04.004 |doi-broken-date=13 January 2026 |url=https://www.researchgate.net/publication/285207561}}</ref> and tough. These properties have made granite a widespread construction stone throughout human history. | ||
==Description== | ==Description== | ||
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The word "granite" comes from the [[Latin]] ''granum'', a grain, in reference to the coarse-grained structure of such a [[holocrystalline|completely crystalline]] rock.<ref name="read-1943">{{cite journal |last1=Read |first1=H.H. |title=Meditations on granite: Part one |journal=Proceedings of the Geologists' Association |date=January 1943 |volume=54 |issue=2 |pages=64–85 |doi=10.1016/S0016-7878(43)80008-0|bibcode=1943PrGA...54...64R }}</ref> Granites can be predominantly white, pink, or gray in color, depending on their [[mineralogy]]. Granitic rocks mainly consist of [[feldspar]], [[quartz]], [[mica]], and [[amphibole]] [[mineral]]s, which form an interlocking, somewhat [[equigranular]] [[Matrix (geology)|matrix]] of feldspar and quartz with scattered darker [[biotite]] mica and amphibole (often [[hornblende]]) peppering the lighter color minerals. Occasionally some individual crystals ([[phenocryst]]s) are larger than the [[groundmass]], in which case the texture is known as [[porphyritic]]. A granitic rock with a porphyritic texture is known as a granite [[Porphyry (geology)|porphyry]]. [[Granitoid]] is a general, descriptive [[Field research|field]] term for lighter-colored, coarse-grained igneous rocks. [[Petrography|Petrographic]] examination is required for identification of specific types of granitoids.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://geology.about.com/od/more_igrocks/a/granitoids.htm |title=Granitoids – Granite and the Related Rocks Granodiorite, Diorite and Tonalite |publisher=Geology.about.com |date=2010-02-06 |access-date=2010-05-09 |archive-date=2009-08-10 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090810214900/http://geology.about.com/od/more_igrocks/a/granitoids.htm |url-status=dead }}</ref> The [[alkali feldspar]] in granites is typically [[orthoclase]] or [[microcline]] and is often [[perthitic]]. The plagioclase is typically sodium-rich [[oligoclase]]. Phenocrysts are usually alkali feldspar.<ref name="blatt-tracy-1996-45">{{cite book |last1=Blatt |first1=Harvey |last2=Tracy |first2=Robert J. |title=Petrology : igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic. |date=1996 |publisher=W.H. Freeman |location=New York |isbn=0-7167-2438-3 |page=45 |edition=2nd}}</ref> | The word "granite" comes from the [[Latin]] ''granum'', a grain, in reference to the coarse-grained structure of such a [[holocrystalline|completely crystalline]] rock.<ref name="read-1943">{{cite journal |last1=Read |first1=H.H. |title=Meditations on granite: Part one |journal=Proceedings of the Geologists' Association |date=January 1943 |volume=54 |issue=2 |pages=64–85 |doi=10.1016/S0016-7878(43)80008-0|bibcode=1943PrGA...54...64R }}</ref> Granites can be predominantly white, pink, or gray in color, depending on their [[mineralogy]]. Granitic rocks mainly consist of [[feldspar]], [[quartz]], [[mica]], and [[amphibole]] [[mineral]]s, which form an interlocking, somewhat [[equigranular]] [[Matrix (geology)|matrix]] of feldspar and quartz with scattered darker [[biotite]] mica and amphibole (often [[hornblende]]) peppering the lighter color minerals. Occasionally some individual crystals ([[phenocryst]]s) are larger than the [[groundmass]], in which case the texture is known as [[porphyritic]]. A granitic rock with a porphyritic texture is known as a granite [[Porphyry (geology)|porphyry]]. [[Granitoid]] is a general, descriptive [[Field research|field]] term for lighter-colored, coarse-grained igneous rocks. [[Petrography|Petrographic]] examination is required for identification of specific types of granitoids.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://geology.about.com/od/more_igrocks/a/granitoids.htm |title=Granitoids – Granite and the Related Rocks Granodiorite, Diorite and Tonalite |publisher=Geology.about.com |date=2010-02-06 |access-date=2010-05-09 |archive-date=2009-08-10 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090810214900/http://geology.about.com/od/more_igrocks/a/granitoids.htm |url-status=dead }}</ref> The [[alkali feldspar]] in granites is typically [[orthoclase]] or [[microcline]] and is often [[perthitic]]. The plagioclase is typically sodium-rich [[oligoclase]]. Phenocrysts are usually alkali feldspar.<ref name="blatt-tracy-1996-45">{{cite book |last1=Blatt |first1=Harvey |last2=Tracy |first2=Robert J. |title=Petrology : igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic. |date=1996 |publisher=W.H. Freeman |location=New York |isbn=0-7167-2438-3 |page=45 |edition=2nd}}</ref> | ||
Granitic rocks are classified according to the [[QAPF diagram]] for coarse grained [[pluton|plutonic rocks]] and are named according to the percentage of [[quartz]], alkali feldspar ([[orthoclase]], [[sanidine]], or [[microcline]]) and [[plagioclase]] feldspar on the A-Q-P half of the diagram. True granite (according to modern [[petrology|petrologic]] convention) contains between 20% and 60% quartz by volume, with 35% to 90% of the total feldspar consisting of [[alkali feldspar]]. Granitic rocks poorer in quartz are classified as [[syenite]]s or [[monzonite]]s, while granitic rocks dominated by plagioclase are classified as [[granodiorite]]s or [[tonalite]]s. Granitic rocks with over 90% | Granitic rocks are classified according to the [[QAPF diagram]] for coarse grained [[pluton|plutonic rocks]] and are named according to the percentage of [[quartz]], alkali feldspar ([[orthoclase]], [[sanidine]], or [[microcline]]) and [[plagioclase]] feldspar on the A-Q-P half of the diagram. True granite (according to modern [[petrology|petrologic]] convention) contains between 20% and 60% quartz by volume, with 35% to 90% of the total feldspar consisting of [[alkali feldspar]]. Granitic rocks poorer in quartz are classified as [[syenite]]s or [[monzonite]]s, while granitic rocks dominated by plagioclase are classified as [[granodiorite]]s or [[tonalite]]s. Granitic rocks with alkali feldspar comprising over 90% of the total feldspar are classified as [[alkali feldspar granite]]s. Granitic rock with more than 60% quartz, which is uncommon, is classified simply as quartz-rich granitoid or, if composed almost entirely of quartz, as [[quartzolite]].<ref name="iugs-1991">{{Cite journal|last1=Le Bas|first1=M. J.|last2=Streckeisen|first2=A. L.|title=The IUGS systematics of igneous rocks|journal=Journal of the Geological Society|volume=148|issue=5|pages=825–833|doi=10.1144/gsjgs.148.5.0825|bibcode=1991JGSoc.148..825L|year=1991|citeseerx=10.1.1.692.4446|s2cid=28548230}}</ref><ref name="BGS-1999">{{Cite journal|date=1999|title=Rock Classification Scheme - Vol 1 - Igneous|url=http://nora.nerc.ac.uk/id/eprint/3223/1/RR99006.pdf|journal=British Geological Survey: Rock Classification Scheme|volume=1|pages=1–52}}</ref><ref name="philpotts-ague-2009-139-143">{{cite book |last1=Philpotts |first1=Anthony R. |last2=Ague |first2=Jay J. |title=Principles of igneous and metamorphic petrology |date=2009 |publisher=Cambridge University Press |location=Cambridge, UK |isbn=9780521880060 |edition=2nd |pages=139–143}}</ref> | ||
[[File:Гранит под микроскопом 2.jpg|thumb | [[File:Гранит под микроскопом 2.jpg|thumb|Granite in [[thin section]], under cross-polarized light]] | ||
True granites are further classified by the percentage of their total feldspar that is alkali feldspar. | True granites are further classified by the percentage of their total feldspar that is alkali feldspar. A granite containing 15% to 25% quartz and whose feldspar is 65% to 90% alkali feldspar is [[syenogranite]], while the feldspar in [[monzogranite]] is 35% to 65% alkali feldspar.<ref name="BGS-1999"/><ref name="philpotts-ague-2009-139-143"/> A granite containing both muscovite and biotite [[mica]]s is called a binary or ''two-mica'' granite. Two-mica granites are typically high in [[potassium]] and low in plagioclase, and are usually S-type granites or A-type granites, as described [[#Alphabet classification system|below]].<ref name="barbarin-1996">{{cite journal |last1=Barbarin |first1=Bernard |title=Genesis of the two main types of peraluminous granitoids |journal=Geology |date=1 April 1996 |volume=24 |issue=4 |pages=295–298 |doi=10.1130/0091-7613(1996)024<0295:GOTTMT>2.3.CO;2|bibcode=1996Geo....24..295B }}</ref><ref>{{cite journal |last1=Washington |first1=Henry S. |title=The Granites of Washington, D. C. |journal=Journal of the Washington Academy of Sciences |volume=11 |number=19 |year=1921 |pages=v459–470 |jstor=24532555}}</ref> | ||
Another aspect of granite classification is the ratios of metals that potentially form feldspars. Most granites have a composition such that almost all their aluminum and alkali metals (sodium and potassium) are combined as feldspar. This is the case when [[Potassium oxide|K<sub>2</sub>O]] + [[Sodium oxide|Na<sub>2</sub>O]] + [[Calcium oxide|CaO]] > [[Alumina|Al<sub>2</sub>O<sub>3</sub>]] > K<sub>2</sub>O + Na<sub>2</sub>O. Such granites are described as ''normal'' or ''metaluminous''. Granites in which there is not enough aluminum to combine with all the alkali oxides as feldspar (Al<sub>2</sub>O<sub>3</sub> < K<sub>2</sub>O + Na<sub>2</sub>O) are described as ''peralkaline'', and they contain unusual sodium amphiboles such as [[riebeckite]]. Granites in which there is an excess of aluminum beyond what can be taken up in feldspars (Al<sub>2</sub>O<sub>3</sub> > CaO + K<sub>2</sub>O + Na<sub>2</sub>O) are described as ''peraluminous'', and they contain aluminum-rich minerals such as [[muscovite]].<ref>Harvey Blatt; Robert J. Tracy (1997). Petrology (2nd ed). New York: Freeman. p. 66. ISBN 0-7167-2438-3.</ref> | Another aspect of granite classification is the ratios of metals that potentially form feldspars. Most granites have a composition such that almost all their aluminum and alkali metals (sodium and potassium) are combined as feldspar. This is the case when [[Potassium oxide|K<sub>2</sub>O]] + [[Sodium oxide|Na<sub>2</sub>O]] + [[Calcium oxide|CaO]] > [[Alumina|Al<sub>2</sub>O<sub>3</sub>]] > K<sub>2</sub>O + Na<sub>2</sub>O. Such granites are described as ''normal'' or ''metaluminous''. Granites in which there is not enough aluminum to combine with all the alkali oxides as feldspar (Al<sub>2</sub>O<sub>3</sub> < K<sub>2</sub>O + Na<sub>2</sub>O) are described as ''peralkaline'', and they contain unusual sodium amphiboles such as [[riebeckite]]. Granites in which there is an excess of aluminum beyond what can be taken up in feldspars (Al<sub>2</sub>O<sub>3</sub> > CaO + K<sub>2</sub>O + Na<sub>2</sub>O) are described as ''peraluminous'', and they contain aluminum-rich minerals such as [[muscovite]].<ref>Harvey Blatt; Robert J. Tracy (1997). Petrology (2nd ed). New York: Freeman. p. 66. ISBN 0-7167-2438-3.</ref> | ||
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===Alphabet classification system=== | ===Alphabet classification system=== | ||
[[File:Mineralogy igneous rocks EN.svg|thumb | [[File:Mineralogy igneous rocks EN.svg|thumb|upright=1.4|Mineral assemblage of igneous rocks]] | ||
The composition and origin of any magma that differentiates into granite leave certain petrological evidence as to what the granite's parental rock was. The final texture and composition of a granite are generally distinctive as to its parental rock. For instance, a granite that is derived from partial melting of metasedimentary rocks may have more alkali feldspar, whereas a granite derived from partial melting of metaigneous rocks may be richer in plagioclase. It is on this basis that the modern "alphabet" classification schemes are based. | The composition and origin of any magma that differentiates into granite leave certain petrological evidence as to what the granite's parental rock was. The final texture and composition of a granite are generally distinctive as to its parental rock. For instance, a granite that is derived from partial melting of metasedimentary rocks may have more alkali feldspar, whereas a granite derived from partial melting of metaigneous rocks may be richer in plagioclase. It is on this basis that the modern "alphabet" classification schemes are based. | ||
The letter-based Chappell & White classification system was proposed initially to divide granites into [[I-type granite|I-type]] (igneous source) granite and S-type (sedimentary sources).<ref>{{cite journal |last1=Chappell |first1=B. W. |last2=White |first2=A. J. R. |title=Two contrasting granite types: 25 years later |journal=Australian Journal of Earth Sciences |date=2001 |volume=48 |issue=4 |pages=489–499 |doi=10.1046/j.1440-0952.2001.00882.x|bibcode=2001AuJES..48..489C |s2cid=33503865 |s2cid-access=free |url=https://faculty.uml.edu//nelson_eby/Research/A-type%20granites/Chappell%20and%20White%20S%20and%20I%20type%20granites.pdf |url-status=live |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20221022054006/https://faculty.uml.edu/nelson_eby/research/a-type%20granites/chappell%20and%20white%20s%20and%20i%20type%20granites.pdf |archive-date= Oct 22, 2022 }}</ref> Both types are produced by partial melting of crustal rocks, either metaigneous rocks or metasedimentary rocks. | The letter-based Chappell & White classification system was proposed initially to divide granites into [[I-type granite|I-type]] (igneous source) granite and [[S-type granite|S-type]] (sedimentary sources).<ref>{{cite journal |last1=Chappell |first1=B. W. |last2=White |first2=A. J. R. |title=Two contrasting granite types: 25 years later |journal=Australian Journal of Earth Sciences |date=2001 |volume=48 |issue=4 |pages=489–499 |doi=10.1046/j.1440-0952.2001.00882.x|bibcode=2001AuJES..48..489C |s2cid=33503865 |s2cid-access=free |url=https://faculty.uml.edu//nelson_eby/Research/A-type%20granites/Chappell%20and%20White%20S%20and%20I%20type%20granites.pdf |url-status=live |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20221022054006/https://faculty.uml.edu/nelson_eby/research/a-type%20granites/chappell%20and%20white%20s%20and%20i%20type%20granites.pdf |archive-date= Oct 22, 2022 }}</ref> Both types are produced by partial melting of crustal rocks, either metaigneous rocks or metasedimentary rocks. | ||
I-type granites are characterized by a high content of sodium and calcium, and by a [[strontium isotope]] ratio, <sup>87</sup>Sr/<sup>86</sup>Sr, of less than 0.708. <sup>87</sup>Sr is produced by radioactive decay of <sup>87</sup>Rb, and since rubidium is concentrated in the crust relative to the mantle, a low ratio suggests origin in the mantle. The elevated sodium and calcium favor crystallization of hornblende rather than biotite. I-type granites are known for their [[porphyry copper]] deposits.{{sfn|Philpotts|Ague|2009|p=378}} I-type granites are orogenic (associated with mountain building) and usually metaluminous.{{sfn|Blatt|Tracy|1996|p=185}} | I-type granites are characterized by a high content of sodium and calcium, and by a [[strontium isotope]] ratio, <sup>87</sup>Sr/<sup>86</sup>Sr, of less than 0.708. <sup>87</sup>Sr is produced by radioactive decay of <sup>87</sup>Rb, and since rubidium is concentrated in the crust relative to the mantle, a low ratio suggests origin in the mantle. The elevated sodium and calcium favor crystallization of hornblende rather than biotite. I-type granites are known for their [[porphyry copper]] deposits.{{sfn|Philpotts|Ague|2009|p=378}} I-type granites are orogenic (associated with mountain building) and usually metaluminous.{{sfn|Blatt|Tracy|1996|p=185}} | ||
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Although both I- and S-type granites are orogenic, I-type granites are more common close to the convergent boundary than S-type. This is attributed to thicker crust further from the boundary, which results in more crustal melting.{{sfn|Philpotts|Ague|2009|p=378}} | Although both I- and S-type granites are orogenic, I-type granites are more common close to the convergent boundary than S-type. This is attributed to thicker crust further from the boundary, which results in more crustal melting.{{sfn|Philpotts|Ague|2009|p=378}} | ||
A-type granites show a peculiar mineralogy and geochemistry, with particularly high silicon and potassium at the expense of calcium and magnesium<ref>{{cite book |last1=Winter |first1=John D. |title=Principles of igneous and metamorphic petrology |publisher=Pearson Education |year=2014 |location=Harlow |isbn=9781292021539 |page=381 |edition=Second ; Pearson new international}}</ref> and a high content of high field strength cations (cations with a small radius and high electrical charge, such as [[zirconium]], [[niobium]], [[tantalum]], and [[rare earth element]]s.){{sfn|Philpotts|Ague|2009|p=148}} They are not orogenic, forming instead over hot spots and continental rifting, and are metaluminous to mildly peralkaline and iron-rich.{{sfn|Blatt|Tracy|1996|p=185}} These granites are produced by partial melting of refractory lithology such as granulites in the lower continental crust at high thermal gradients. This leads to significant extraction of hydrous felsic melts from granulite-facies resitites.{{sfn|Blatt|Tracy|1996|pp=203–206}}<ref>{{cite journal |last1=Whalen |first1=Joseph B. |last2=Currie |first2=Kenneth L. |last3=Chappell |first3=Bruce W. |title=A-type granites: geochemical characteristics, discrimination and petrogenesis |journal=Contributions to Mineralogy and Petrology |date=April 1987 |volume=95 |issue=4 |pages=407–419 |doi=10.1007/BF00402202|bibcode=1987CoMP...95..407W |s2cid=128541930 |url=http://www.gt-crust.ru/jour/article/view/579 |url-access=subscription }}</ref> A-type granites occur in the Koettlitz Glacier Alkaline Province in the Royal Society Range, Antarctica.<ref>{{cite journal |last1=Cottle |first1=John M. |last2=Cooper |first2=Alan F. |title=Geology, geochemistry, and geochronology of an A-type granite in the Mulock Glacier area, southern Victoria Land, Antarctica |journal=New Zealand Journal of Geology and Geophysics |date=June 2006 |volume=49 |issue=2 |pages=191–202 |doi=10.1080/00288306.2006.9515159|s2cid=128395509 |doi-access=free |bibcode=2006NZJGG..49..191C }}</ref> The rhyolites of the Yellowstone Caldera are examples of volcanic equivalents of A-type granite.<ref>{{cite journal |last1=Branney |first1=M. J. |last2=Bonnichsen |first2=B. |last3=Andrews |first3=G. D. M. |last4=Ellis |first4=B. |last5=Barry |first5=T. L. |last6=McCurry |first6=M. |title='Snake River (SR)-type' volcanism at the Yellowstone hotspot track: distinctive products from unusual, high-temperature silicic super-eruptions |journal=Bulletin of Volcanology |date=January 2008 |volume=70 |issue=3 |pages=293–314 |doi=10.1007/s00445-007-0140-7|s2cid=128878481 }}</ref> | A-type granites show a peculiar mineralogy and geochemistry, with particularly high silicon and potassium at the expense of calcium and magnesium<ref>{{cite book |last1=Winter |first1=John D. |title=Principles of igneous and metamorphic petrology |publisher=Pearson Education |year=2014 |location=Harlow |isbn=9781292021539 |page=381 |edition=Second ; Pearson new international}}</ref> and a high content of high field strength cations (cations with a small radius and high electrical charge, such as [[zirconium]], [[niobium]], [[tantalum]], and [[rare earth element]]s.){{sfn|Philpotts|Ague|2009|p=148}} They are not orogenic, forming instead over hot spots and continental rifting, and are metaluminous to mildly peralkaline and iron-rich.{{sfn|Blatt|Tracy|1996|p=185}} These granites are produced by partial melting of refractory lithology such as granulites in the lower continental crust at high thermal gradients. This leads to significant extraction of hydrous felsic melts from granulite-facies resitites.{{sfn|Blatt|Tracy|1996|pp=203–206}}<ref>{{cite journal |last1=Whalen |first1=Joseph B. |last2=Currie |first2=Kenneth L. |last3=Chappell |first3=Bruce W. |title=A-type granites: geochemical characteristics, discrimination and petrogenesis |journal=Contributions to Mineralogy and Petrology |date=April 1987 |volume=95 |issue=4 |pages=407–419 |doi=10.1007/BF00402202|bibcode=1987CoMP...95..407W |s2cid=128541930 |url=http://www.gt-crust.ru/jour/article/view/579 |url-access=subscription }}</ref> A-type granites occur in the Koettlitz Glacier Alkaline Province in the Royal Society Range, Antarctica.<ref>{{cite journal |last1=Cottle |first1=John M. |last2=Cooper |first2=Alan F. |title=Geology, geochemistry, and geochronology of an A-type granite in the Mulock Glacier area, southern Victoria Land, Antarctica |journal=New Zealand Journal of Geology and Geophysics |date=June 2006 |volume=49 |issue=2 |pages=191–202 |doi=10.1080/00288306.2006.9515159|s2cid=128395509 |doi-access=free |bibcode=2006NZJGG..49..191C }}</ref> The rhyolites of the Yellowstone Caldera are examples of volcanic equivalents of A-type granite.<ref>{{cite journal |last1=Branney |first1=M. J. |last2=Bonnichsen |first2=B. |last3=Andrews |first3=G. D. M. |last4=Ellis |first4=B. |last5=Barry |first5=T. L. |last6=McCurry |first6=M. |title='Snake River (SR)-type' volcanism at the Yellowstone hotspot track: distinctive products from unusual, high-temperature silicic super-eruptions |journal=Bulletin of Volcanology |date=January 2008 |volume=70 |issue=3 |pages=293–314 |doi=10.1007/s00445-007-0140-7|s2cid=128878481 |hdl=2381/20233 |hdl-access=free }}</ref> | ||
M-type granite was later proposed to cover those granites that were clearly sourced from crystallized mafic magmas, generally sourced from the mantle.<ref>{{cite journal |last1=Whalen |first1=J. B. |title=Geochemistry of an Island-Arc Plutonic Suite: the Uasilau-Yau Yau Intrusive Complex, New Britain, P.N.G |journal=Journal of Petrology |date=1 August 1985 |volume=26 |issue=3 |pages=603–632 |doi=10.1093/petrology/26.3.603|bibcode=1985JPet...26..603W }}</ref> Although the fractional crystallisation of basaltic melts can yield small amounts of granites, which are sometimes found in island arcs,<ref>{{cite journal |last1=Saito |first1=Satoshi |last2=Arima |first2=Makoto |last3=Nakajima |first3=Takashi |last4=Kimura |first4=Jun-Ichi |title=Petrogenesis of Ashigawa and Tonogi granitic intrusions, southern part of the Miocene Kofu Granitic Complex, central Japan: M-type granite in the Izu arc collision zone |journal=Journal of Mineralogical and Petrological Sciences |date=2004 |volume=99 |issue=3 |pages=104–117 |doi=10.2465/jmps.99.104|bibcode=2004JMPeS..99..104S |doi-access=free }}</ref> such granites must occur together with large amounts of basaltic rocks.{{sfn|Philpotts|Ague|2009|p=378}} | M-type granite was later proposed to cover those granites that were clearly sourced from crystallized mafic magmas, generally sourced from the mantle.<ref>{{cite journal |last1=Whalen |first1=J. B. |title=Geochemistry of an Island-Arc Plutonic Suite: the Uasilau-Yau Yau Intrusive Complex, New Britain, P.N.G |journal=Journal of Petrology |date=1 August 1985 |volume=26 |issue=3 |pages=603–632 |doi=10.1093/petrology/26.3.603|bibcode=1985JPet...26..603W }}</ref> Although the fractional crystallisation of basaltic melts can yield small amounts of granites, which are sometimes found in island arcs,<ref>{{cite journal |last1=Saito |first1=Satoshi |last2=Arima |first2=Makoto |last3=Nakajima |first3=Takashi |last4=Kimura |first4=Jun-Ichi |title=Petrogenesis of Ashigawa and Tonogi granitic intrusions, southern part of the Miocene Kofu Granitic Complex, central Japan: M-type granite in the Izu arc collision zone |journal=Journal of Mineralogical and Petrological Sciences |date=2004 |volume=99 |issue=3 |pages=104–117 |doi=10.2465/jmps.99.104|bibcode=2004JMPeS..99..104S |doi-access=free }}</ref> such granites must occur together with large amounts of basaltic rocks.{{sfn|Philpotts|Ague|2009|p=378}} | ||
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* Stokes [[diapir]] | * Stokes [[diapir]] | ||
* [[Fracture (geology)|Fracture propagation]] | * [[Fracture (geology)|Fracture propagation]] | ||
[[File:Magma ascent mechanism.png|thumb | [[File:Magma ascent mechanism.png|thumb|Schematic diagram illustrating the ascent and emplacement of magmas]] | ||
Of these two mechanisms, Stokes diapirism has been favoured for many years in the absence of a reasonable alternative. The basic idea is that magma will rise through the crust as a single mass through [[buoyancy]]. As it rises, it heats the [[Country rock (geology)|wall rocks]], causing them to behave as a [[power-law fluid]] and thus flow around the [[intrusion]] allowing it to pass without major heat loss.<ref>{{Cite journal | doi = 10.1029/93JB03461| title = Diapiric ascent of magmas through power law crust and mantle| journal = Journal of Geophysical Research| volume = 99| issue = B5| page = 9543| year = 1994| last1 = Weinberg | first1 = R. F. | last2 = Podladchikov | first2 = Y. | s2cid = 19470906| bibcode=1994JGR....99.9543W}}</ref> This is entirely feasible in the warm, [[ductility|ductile]] lower crust where rocks are easily deformed, but runs into problems in the upper crust which is far colder and more brittle. Rocks there do not deform so easily: for magma to rise as a diapir it would expend far too much energy in heating wall rocks, thus cooling and solidifying before reaching higher levels within the crust. | Of these two mechanisms, Stokes diapirism has been favoured for many years in the absence of a reasonable alternative. The basic idea is that magma will rise through the crust as a single mass through [[buoyancy]]. As it rises, it heats the [[Country rock (geology)|wall rocks]], causing them to behave as a [[power-law fluid]] and thus flow around the [[intrusion]] allowing it to pass without major heat loss.<ref>{{Cite journal | doi = 10.1029/93JB03461| title = Diapiric ascent of magmas through power law crust and mantle| journal = Journal of Geophysical Research| volume = 99| issue = B5| page = 9543| year = 1994| last1 = Weinberg | first1 = R. F. | last2 = Podladchikov | first2 = Y. | s2cid = 19470906| bibcode=1994JGR....99.9543W}}</ref> This is entirely feasible in the warm, [[ductility|ductile]] lower crust where rocks are easily deformed, but runs into problems in the upper crust which is far colder and more brittle. Rocks there do not deform so easily: for magma to rise as a diapir it would expend far too much energy in heating wall rocks, thus cooling and solidifying before reaching higher levels within the crust. | ||
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==Weathering== | ==Weathering== | ||
{{further|Weathering}} | {{further|Weathering}} | ||
[[File:GrusSand.JPG|thumb | [[File:GrusSand.JPG|thumb|[[Grus (geology)|Grus]] sand and granitoid from which it derived]] | ||
[[Physical weathering]] occurs on a large scale in the form of [[exfoliation joint]]s, which are the result of granite's expanding and fracturing as pressure is relieved when overlying material is removed by erosion or other processes. | [[Physical weathering]] occurs on a large scale in the form of [[exfoliation joint]]s, which are the result of granite's expanding and fracturing as pressure is relieved when overlying material is removed by erosion or other processes. | ||
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Soil development on granite reflects the rock's high quartz content and dearth of available bases, with the base-poor status predisposing the soil to [[soil acidification|acidification]] and [[podzol]]ization in cool humid climates as the weather-resistant quartz yields much sand.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://luitool.soilweb.ca/podzols/Land |title=Land Use Impacts |work=Land Use Impacts on Soil Quality |access-date=23 March 2022}}</ref> Feldspars also weather slowly in cool climes, allowing sand to dominate the fine-earth fraction. In warm humid regions, the weathering of feldspar as described above is accelerated so as to allow a much higher proportion of clay with the [[Cecil (soil)|Cecil]] soil series a prime example of the consequent [[Ultisol]] great soil group.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.soils4teachers.org/files/s4t/k12outreach/nc-state-soil-booklet.pdf |title=Cecil – North Carolina State Soil |publisher=Soil Science Society of America |access-date=23 March 2022}}</ref> | Soil development on granite reflects the rock's high quartz content and dearth of available bases, with the base-poor status predisposing the soil to [[soil acidification|acidification]] and [[podzol]]ization in cool humid climates as the weather-resistant quartz yields much sand.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://luitool.soilweb.ca/podzols/Land |title=Land Use Impacts |work=Land Use Impacts on Soil Quality |access-date=23 March 2022}}</ref> Feldspars also weather slowly in cool climes, allowing sand to dominate the fine-earth fraction. In warm humid regions, the weathering of feldspar as described above is accelerated so as to allow a much higher proportion of clay with the [[Cecil (soil)|Cecil]] soil series a prime example of the consequent [[Ultisol]] great soil group.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.soils4teachers.org/files/s4t/k12outreach/nc-state-soil-booklet.pdf |title=Cecil – North Carolina State Soil |publisher=Soil Science Society of America |access-date=23 March 2022}}</ref> | ||
Fires can also contribute to the weathering of granite. The high temperatures reached during a fire—often exceeding 1000 °C—can cause significant physical and chemical processes that alter the rock. Among the physical processes, the differential thermal expansion of individual mineral grains, the anisotropic expansion of certain minerals, and polymorphic transformations, such as the alpha-beta quartz transition, induce substantial volume changes and generate internal stresses that damage the granite.<ref name=":0">{{Cite journal |last=Heuze |first=F. E. |date=1983-02-01 |title=High-temperature mechanical, physical and Thermal properties of granitic rocks— A review |url=https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/0148906283916091 |journal=International Journal of Rock Mechanics and Mining Sciences & Geomechanics Abstracts |volume=20 |issue=1 |pages=3–10 |doi=10.1016/0148-9062(83)91609-1 |issn=0148-9062|url-access=subscription }}</ref><ref name=":1">{{Cite journal | | Fires can also contribute to the weathering of granite. The high temperatures reached during a fire—often exceeding 1000 °C—can cause significant physical and chemical processes that alter the rock. Among the physical processes, the differential thermal expansion of individual mineral grains, the anisotropic expansion of certain minerals, and polymorphic transformations, such as the alpha-beta quartz transition, induce substantial volume changes and generate internal stresses that damage the granite.<ref name=":0">{{Cite journal |last=Heuze |first=F. E. |date=1983-02-01 |title=High-temperature mechanical, physical and Thermal properties of granitic rocks— A review |url=https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/0148906283916091 |journal=International Journal of Rock Mechanics and Mining Sciences & Geomechanics Abstracts |volume=20 |issue=1 |pages=3–10 |doi=10.1016/0148-9062(83)91609-1 |bibcode=1983IJRMA..20....3H |issn=0148-9062|url-access=subscription }}</ref><ref name=":1">{{Cite journal |last1=Tomás |first1=R. |last2=Cano |first2=M. |last3=Pulgarín |first3=L. F. |last4=Brotóns |first4=V. |last5=Benavente |first5=D. |last6=Miranda |first6=T. |last7=Vasconcelos |first7=G. |date=2021-11-01 |title=Thermal effect of high temperatures on the physical and mechanical properties of a granite used in UNESCO World Heritage sites in north Portugal |url=https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S2352710221006811 |journal=Journal of Building Engineering |volume=43 |article-number=102823 |doi=10.1016/j.jobe.2021.102823 |issn=2352-7102|hdl=10045/115630 |hdl-access=free }}</ref> Additionally, the decomposition of certain granite constituents, such as phyllosilicates, at specific temperatures further contributes to granite degradation. As a result, granite becomes micro-fractured, its total porosity increases, and its mechanical strength is significantly reduced.<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":1" /><ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Sha |first1=Song |last2=Rong |first2=Guan |last3=Peng |first3=Jun |last4=Li |first4=Bowen |last5=Wu |first5=Zhijun |date=2019-11-01 |title=Effect of Open-Fire-Induced Damage on Brazilian Tensile Strength and Microstructure of Granite |url=https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00603-019-01871-z |journal=Rock Mechanics and Rock Engineering |language=en |volume=52 |issue=11 |pages=4189–4202 |doi=10.1007/s00603-019-01871-z |bibcode=2019RMRE...52.4189S |issn=1434-453X|url-access=subscription }}</ref> | ||
==Natural radiation== | ==Natural radiation== | ||
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| chapter-url= http://www.aarst.org/proceedings/2009/PRE-AND_POST-MARKET_MEASUREMENTS_OF_GAMMA_RADIATION_AND_RADON_EMANATION_FROM_A_LARGE_SAMPLE_OF_DECORATIVE_GRANITES.pdf | | chapter-url= http://www.aarst.org/proceedings/2009/PRE-AND_POST-MARKET_MEASUREMENTS_OF_GAMMA_RADIATION_AND_RADON_EMANATION_FROM_A_LARGE_SAMPLE_OF_DECORATIVE_GRANITES.pdf | ||
| title= Nineteenth International Radon Symposium|pages= 28–51|chapter=Pre- and Post-Market Measurements of Gamma Radiation and Radon Emanation from a Large Sample of Decorative Granites | first= Daniel J. | | title= Nineteenth International Radon Symposium|pages= 28–51|chapter=Pre- and Post-Market Measurements of Gamma Radiation and Radon Emanation from a Large Sample of Decorative Granites | first= Daniel J. | ||
| last= Steck | year=2009 | | last= Steck | year=2009}}</ref> that approximately 5% of all granite is of concern, with the caveat that only a tiny percentage of the tens of thousands of granite slab types have been tested. Resources from national geological survey organizations are accessible online to assist in assessing the risk factors in granite country and design rules relating, in particular, to preventing accumulation of radon gas in enclosed basements and dwellings. | ||
}}</ref> that approximately 5% of all granite is of concern, with the caveat that only a tiny percentage of the tens of thousands of granite slab types have been tested. Resources from national geological survey organizations are accessible online to assist in assessing the risk factors in granite country and design rules relating, in particular, to preventing accumulation of radon gas in enclosed basements and dwellings. | |||
A study of granite countertops was done (initiated and paid for by the Marble Institute of America) in November 2008 by National Health and Engineering Inc. of USA. In this test, all of the 39 full-size granite slabs that were measured for the study showed radiation levels well below the European Union safety standards (section 4.1.1.1 of the National Health and Engineering study) and radon emission levels well below the average outdoor radon concentrations in the US.<ref>{{Cite web | A study of granite countertops was done (initiated and paid for by the Marble Institute of America) in November 2008 by National Health and Engineering Inc. of USA. In this test, all of the 39 full-size granite slabs that were measured for the study showed radiation levels well below the European Union safety standards (section 4.1.1.1 of the National Health and Engineering study) and radon emission levels well below the average outdoor radon concentrations in the US.<ref>{{Cite web | ||
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==Industry and uses== | ==Industry and uses== | ||
Granite and related [[marble industry|marble industries]] are considered one of the oldest industries in the world, existing as far back as [[Ancient Egypt]].<ref name="Nemerow2009">{{cite book |author=Nelson L. Nemerow |title=Environmental Engineering: Environmental Health and Safety for Municipal Infrastructure, Land Use and Planning, and Industry |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=VO-Unp1sFAMC&pg=PA40 |date=27 January 2009 |publisher=John Wiley & Sons |isbn=978-0-470-08305-5 |page=40}}</ref> Major modern exporters of granite include China, India, Italy, Brazil, Canada, Germany, Sweden, Spain and the United States.<ref name="Alexander2009">{{cite book |author=Parmodh Alexander |title=A Handbook of Minerals, Crystals, Rocks and Ores |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=4ubOP1s1nBIC&pg=PA585 |date=15 January 2009 |publisher=New India Publishing |isbn=978-81-907237-8-7 |page=585}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last= |date=2025-02-17 |title=Where Does the Hardest Granite Come From? |url=https://georgestones.com/where-does-the-hardest-granite-come-from/ |access-date=2025-05-14 |website=George Stone |language=en}}</ref> | Granite and related [[marble industry|marble industries]] are considered one of the oldest industries in the world, existing as far back as [[Ancient Egypt]].<ref name="Nemerow2009">{{cite book |author=Nelson L. Nemerow |title=Environmental Engineering: Environmental Health and Safety for Municipal Infrastructure, Land Use and Planning, and Industry |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=VO-Unp1sFAMC&pg=PA40 |date=27 January 2009 |publisher=John Wiley & Sons |isbn=978-0-470-08305-5 |page=40}}</ref> Major modern exporters of granite include China, India, Italy, Brazil, Canada, Germany, Sweden, Spain and the United States.<ref name="Alexander2009">{{cite book |author=Parmodh Alexander |title=A Handbook of Minerals, Crystals, Rocks and Ores |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=4ubOP1s1nBIC&pg=PA585 |date=15 January 2009 |publisher=New India Publishing |isbn=978-81-907237-8-7 |page=585}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last= |date=2025-02-17 |title=Where Does the Hardest Granite Come From? |url=https://georgestones.com/where-does-the-hardest-granite-come-from/ |access-date=2025-05-14 |website=George Stone |language=en}}</ref> The term "granite" is a vague term in the construction industry as it usually includes other intrusive rocks such as gabbro and diorite besides true granite. | ||
===Antiquity=== | ===Antiquity=== | ||
[[File:Cleopatra's Needle (London) inscriptions.jpg|thumb | [[File:Cleopatra's Needle (London) inscriptions.jpg|thumb|upright|Cleopatra's Needle, London]] | ||
The [[Red Pyramid]] of [[Ancient Egypt|Egypt]] ({{Circa|2590 BC}}), named for the light crimson hue of its exposed limestone surfaces, is the third largest of [[Egyptian pyramids]]. [[Pyramid of Menkaure]], likely dating 2510 BC, was constructed of [[limestone]] and granite blocks. The [[Great Pyramid of Giza]] (c. [[26th century BC|2580 BC]]) contains a granite [[sarcophagus]] fashioned of "Red [[Aswan]] Granite". The mostly ruined [[Black Pyramid]] dating from the reign of [[Amenemhat III]] once had a polished granite [[pyramidion]] or capstone, which is now on display in the main hall of the [[Egyptian Museum]] in [[Cairo]] (see [[Dahshur]]). Other uses in [[Ancient Egypt]] include [[column]]s, door [[lintel]]s, [[sill plate|sills]], [[jamb]]s, and wall and floor veneer.<ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.eeescience.utoledo.edu/Faculty/Harrell/Egypt/Mosques/CAIRO_Rocks_1.htm| title=Decorative Stones in the Pre-Ottoman Islamic Buildings of Cairo, Egypt| author=James A. Harrell| access-date=2008-01-06}}</ref> How the [[Egyptians]] worked the solid granite is still a matter of debate. Tool marks described by the Egyptologist Anna Serotta indicate the use of flint tools on finer work with harder stones, e.g. when producing the hieroglyphic inscriptions.<ref>{{Cite journal |last=Serotta |first=Anna |date=2023-12-19 |title=Reading Tool Marks on Egyptian Stone Sculpture |url=https://rivista.museoegizio.it/article/reading-tool-marks-on-egyptian-stone-sculpture/ |journal=Rivista del Museo Egizio |volume=7 |doi=10.29353/rime.2023.5098 |issn=2611-3295|doi-access=free }}</ref> [[Patrick Hunt (archaeologist)|Patrick Hunt]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://hebsed.home.comcast.net/hunt.htm |title=Egyptian Genius: Stoneworking for Eternity |access-date=2008-01-06 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071014031747/http://hebsed.home.comcast.net/hunt.htm |archive-date=2007-10-14 }}</ref> has postulated that the Egyptians used [[emery (rock)|emery]], which has greater hardness. | The [[Red Pyramid]] of [[Ancient Egypt|Egypt]] ({{Circa|2590 BC}}), named for the light crimson hue of its exposed limestone surfaces, is the third largest of [[Egyptian pyramids]]. [[Pyramid of Menkaure]], likely dating 2510 BC, was constructed of [[limestone]] and granite blocks. The [[Great Pyramid of Giza]] (c. [[26th century BC|2580 BC]]) contains a granite [[sarcophagus]] fashioned of "Red [[Aswan]] Granite". The mostly ruined [[Black Pyramid]] dating from the reign of [[Amenemhat III]] once had a polished granite [[pyramidion]] or capstone, which is now on display in the main hall of the [[Egyptian Museum]] in [[Cairo]] (see [[Dahshur]]). Other uses in [[Ancient Egypt]] include [[column]]s, door [[lintel]]s, [[sill plate|sills]], [[jamb]]s, and wall and floor veneer.<ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.eeescience.utoledo.edu/Faculty/Harrell/Egypt/Mosques/CAIRO_Rocks_1.htm| title=Decorative Stones in the Pre-Ottoman Islamic Buildings of Cairo, Egypt| author=James A. Harrell| access-date=2008-01-06}}</ref> How the [[Egyptians]] worked the solid granite is still a matter of debate. Tool marks described by the Egyptologist Anna Serotta indicate the use of flint tools on finer work with harder stones, e.g. when producing the hieroglyphic inscriptions.<ref>{{Cite journal |last=Serotta |first=Anna |date=2023-12-19 |title=Reading Tool Marks on Egyptian Stone Sculpture |url=https://rivista.museoegizio.it/article/reading-tool-marks-on-egyptian-stone-sculpture/ |journal=Rivista del Museo Egizio |volume=7 |doi=10.29353/rime.2023.5098 |issn=2611-3295|doi-access=free }}</ref> [[Patrick Hunt (archaeologist)|Patrick Hunt]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://hebsed.home.comcast.net/hunt.htm |title=Egyptian Genius: Stoneworking for Eternity |access-date=2008-01-06 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071014031747/http://hebsed.home.comcast.net/hunt.htm |archive-date=2007-10-14 }}</ref> has postulated that the Egyptians used [[emery (rock)|emery]], which has greater hardness. | ||
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====Sculpture and memorials==== | ====Sculpture and memorials==== | ||
[[File:Olhares sobre o Museu do Ipiranga 2017 041.jpg|thumb|The | [[File:Olhares sobre o Museu do Ipiranga 2017 041.jpg|thumb|The grave of Emperor [[Pedro I of Brazil]] (who was also King of Portugal as Pedro IV) and those of his wives, [[Maria Leopoldina of Austria|Maria Leopoldina]] (not pictured, opposite his grave) and [[Amélie of Leuchtenberg|Amélie]] (left), are made of green granite. The walls as well as the floor are clad in the same material.<ref>{{cite web|author=De Matteo, Giovanna |title=Leopoldina e Teresa Cristina: descubra o que aconteceu com as "mães do Brasil"|url=https://aventurasnahistoria.uol.com.br/noticias/reportagem/leopoldina-e-tereza-cristina-descubra-o-que-aconteceu-com-as-maes-do-brasil.phtml|date=12 September 2020|language=pt|access-date=29 December 2022}}</ref> The crypt is located beneath the [[Monument to the Independence of Brazil]]]] | ||
In some areas, granite is used for gravestones and memorials. Granite is a hard stone and requires skill to carve by hand. Until the early 18th century, in the Western world, granite could be carved only by hand tools with generally poor results. | In some areas, granite is used for gravestones and memorials. Granite is a hard stone and requires skill to carve by hand. Until the early 18th century, in the Western world, granite could be carved only by hand tools with generally poor results. | ||
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====Buildings==== | ====Buildings==== | ||
[[File:Graniittilinna.jpg|thumb|The [[Aulanko Castle|granite castle of Aulanko]] in [[Hämeenlinna]], Finland]] | [[File:Graniittilinna.jpg|thumb|The [[Aulanko Castle|granite castle of Aulanko]] in [[Hämeenlinna]], Finland]] | ||
Granite has been extensively used as a [[dimension stone]] and as flooring tiles in public and commercial buildings and monuments. [[Aberdeen]] in Scotland, which is constructed principally from local granite, is known as "The Granite City". Because of its abundance in [[New England]], granite was commonly used to build foundations for homes there. The [[Granite Railway]], America's first railroad, was built to haul granite from the quarries in [[Quincy, Massachusetts]], to the [[Neponset River]] in the 1820s.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Brayley |first1=A.W. |title=History of the Granite Industry of New England |date=1913 |publisher=Franklin Classics | Granite has been extensively used as a [[dimension stone]] and as flooring tiles in public and commercial buildings and monuments. [[Aberdeen]] in Scotland, which is constructed principally from local granite, is known as "The Granite City". Because of its abundance in [[New England]], granite was commonly used to build foundations for homes there. The [[Granite Railway]], America's first railroad, was built to haul granite from the quarries in [[Quincy, Massachusetts]], to the [[Neponset River]] in the 1820s.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Brayley |first1=A.W. |title=History of the Granite Industry of New England |date=1913 |publisher=Franklin Classics |edition=2018 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=RasJAAAAIAAJ&q=granite+railway&pg=PP17 |access-date=3 December 2020}}</ref> | ||
====Engineering==== | ====Engineering==== | ||
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====Paving==== | ====Paving==== | ||
Granite is used as a [[Pavers (flooring)|pavement]] material. This is because it is extremely durable, permeable and requires little maintenance. For example, in [[Sydney]], Australia black granite stone is used for the paving and kerbs throughout the [[Central Business District]].<ref>{{cite web |title=Sydney Streets technical specifications |date=November 2020 |url=https://www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au/design-codes-technical-specifications/sydney-streets |access-date=25 January 2022}}</ref> | Granite is used as a [[Pavers (flooring)|pavement]] material. This is because it is extremely durable, permeable and requires little maintenance. For example, in [[Sydney]], Australia black granite stone is used for the paving and kerbs throughout the [[Central Business District]].<ref>{{cite web |title=Sydney Streets technical specifications |date=November 2020 |url=https://www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au/design-codes-technical-specifications/sydney-streets |access-date=25 January 2022}}</ref> Granite can be crushed using industrial equipment such as [[Crusher#Vertical shaft impactor (VSI)|VSI]] or [[Crusher#Cone crusher|cone crusher]].<ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Yang |first1=Jian-hong |last2=Chen |first2=Qi |last3=Zhou |first3=Jian-hua |last4=Fang |first4=Huai-ying |date=2018-11-01 |title=Experimental Study on Impact Crushing of Granite Particles |url=https://doi.org/10.1520/JTE20170180 |journal=Journal of Testing and Evaluation |volume=46 |issue=6 |pages=2376–2388 |doi=10.1520/JTE20170180 |url-access=subscription }}</ref> | ||
====Curling stones==== | ====Curling stones==== | ||
[[File:Curling stones yellow.jpg|thumb|Curling stones]] | [[File:Curling stones yellow.jpg|thumb|Curling stones]] | ||
[[Curling]] stones are traditionally fashioned of Ailsa Craig granite. The first stones were made in the 1750s, the original source being [[Ailsa Craig]] in [[Scotland]]. Because of the rarity of this granite, the best stones can cost as much as US$1,500. Between 60 and 70 percent of the stones used today are made from Ailsa Craig granite. Although the island is now a wildlife reserve, it is still quarried under license for Ailsa granite by [[Kays of Scotland]] for curling stones.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2004/10/1027_041027_curling_stones.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20041102011535/http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2004/10/1027_041027_curling_stones.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=November 2, 2004 |title=National Geographic News — Puffins Return to Scottish Island Famous for Curling Stones |publisher=National Geographic News|author=Roach, John |date=October 27, 2004}}</ref> | [[Curling]] stones are traditionally fashioned of Ailsa Craig granite. The first stones were made in the 1750s, the original source being [[Ailsa Craig]] in [[Scotland]]. Because of the rarity of this granite, the best stones can cost as much as US$1,500. Between 60 and 70 percent of the stones used today are made from Ailsa Craig granite. Although the island is now a wildlife reserve, it is still quarried under license for Ailsa granite by [[Kays of Scotland]] for curling stones.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2004/10/1027_041027_curling_stones.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20041102011535/http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2004/10/1027_041027_curling_stones.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=November 2, 2004 |title=National Geographic News — Puffins Return to Scottish Island Famous for Curling Stones |publisher=National Geographic News|author=Roach, John |date=October 27, 2004}}</ref> | ||
=== Countertops === | |||
In the United States, granite is a popular choice for countertops due to its affordability, aesthetic appeal, and convenience. | |||
==Rock climbing== | ==Rock climbing== | ||
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File:HuangShan.JPG|A granite peak at [[Huangshan]], China | File:HuangShan.JPG|A granite peak at [[Huangshan]], China | ||
File:The Cheesewring.jpg|The [[Cheesewring]], a granite [[Tor (rock formation)|tor]] in [[England]] | File:The Cheesewring.jpg|The [[Cheesewring]], a granite [[Tor (rock formation)|tor]] in [[England]] | ||
File:MawsonPlateau-03.jpg|Granite cliff overlooking Saucepan Creek, [[Mawson Plateau]], South Australia. | |||
</gallery> | </gallery> | ||