GRANITE

Close-up of black and dark brown sparkly granite surface with small reflective mineral particles.

Ranking 6 to 7 on the Mohs hardness scale, granite is one of the hardest natural stones. Its durability makes it resistant to scratches and weathering, though acidic substances can dull its polish over time.

Granite is an igneous rock formed when magma slowly cools and solidifies beneath the Earth's crust, allowing large mineral grains to develop. It primarily consists of quartz, feldspar, and mica, which can vary in color and texture due to interactions with surrounding rocks and hydrothermal fluids. Over time, erosion exposes granite at the surface, making it available for quarrying.