How It Forms
What Is
Granite?
Granite forms deep within the earth's crust as molten magma cools slowly over millions of years. This slow cooling process allows large mineral crystals — primarily quartz, feldspar, and mica — to form, which gives granite its characteristic speckled appearance and exceptional hardness. Unlike marble, granite does not go through metamorphism — it solidifies directly from magma.
How It Looks
Granite's appearance is defined by its mineral composition — typically a speckled pattern of interlocking crystals in combinations of white, grey, black, pink, and brown. Some granites have dramatic movement and color variation; others are more uniform. The surface can be polished to a high sheen, honed to a matte finish, or brushed for a textured outdoor look.
