Origins of Granite
It still surprises me that we sometimes hear, “How is granite made?” I just naturally assume that everyone knows that granite is a natural product formed within the earth’s crust. With the variety of competitive products available these days for countertops, I guess there can be some confusion, so let’s start by defining the word granite.
The MIA Dimension Stone Design Manual, Version 6, states that “The American Geological Institute defines granite as an intrusive igneous rock composed of 25-35% quartz and over 50% potassium and sodium-rich felsdspars, with a common accessory mineral of less than 20%, usally muscovite (clear mica), or biotite (dark, iron-bearing mica).”
Granite can be composed of a variety of minerals and it is the different mineral compositions, chemistry, and mineralogy that form the wide varieties of colors available. Granite makes up 75% of the earth’s crust and has been formed throughout all geological periods of time. Granite is found throughout the world and commonly occurs in mountainous regions such as Italy, Brazil, India, United States, etc. Granite is very durable, so it is ideal for countertops, flooring, and other building materials.
Thanks for reading!
Barb
Posted in Granite on February 6th, 2008 by Barb | |
on February 9th, 2008 at 12:26 pm
Barb
Very nice and interesting page and articles.
Congratulations for this blog.
Regards
Osmar Reckelberg
Vitória - ES - Brazil
on February 11th, 2008 at 10:03 am
Thanks for your comments.