Granite
Reference articles are in English.
A biotite granite specimen from the GeoDIL geological collection. Source
Description
Granite is a coarse-crystalline igneous rock containing quartz and feldspars, usually with smaller amounts of dark minerals. Visible crystals give it a flecked appearance. In the stone trade, granite also includes some other rocks, including gabbro and gneiss. Grain size and finish affect the appearance of carved detail.
History
Granite forms as molten rock cools slowly below the Earth’s surface. It has been used for monuments, sculpture and building stone; the development of quarrying and finishing techniques has extended its architectural uses.
Commissioning
A commission should name the source or commercial variety and include a finish sample. Edges, inscriptions and support or installation should be agreed with the practitioner. Suitability depends on the selected stone and construction, as well as the broad material family.
