Granite
Granite forms the main component of the earth’s crust. And, many mountains are composed of this stone. For example, Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in Europe, is one of the most famous granite formations. Granite is a hard stone consisting of several different elements. For this reason, it is one of the stones used especially in construction and decoration. In the same fashion, the buildings built of granite have been standing for thousands of years. Together with, their beauty and durability. Granite comes from the Latin word ” granum “. Which means grain. This igneous stone consists of 65% feldspar ( silicate grade) and 25% quartz. Also, a small amount of mica ( biotite and muscovite ) is found in granite. The chemical composition of granite is characterized by a high alkali content, a low content of iron and magnesium. The color of granite can be different colors, such as white, pink, or red. Its color varies depending on the elements included in its composition. For example, if it contains a high content of potassium feldspar, the stone acquires a pink color, if there is iron oxide, the granite is formed in a dark red color. There was no decisively expressed opinion about the formation of granite among petrologists and geologists. İt was believed that in the 18th-19th centuries, granites were formed by the deposition of crystals on the ocean floor, but then the idea arose that it was formed at a depth of 3 kilometres below the ground due to lithostatic pressures.
Granite is known as the “eternal stone”. The first signs of wear and tear of granite appear only after 500 years. The granite sarcophagus in the Great Pyramid of Giza has remained almost unchanged over time. This feature also depends on the size of the granite. The resistance of granite with a fine-grained structure to pressure is about 300 MPa. According to this parameter, granite is significantly superior to other materials. As a result of polymorphic transformations of quartz, granite cracks at temperatures above 600 degrees Celsius. But, it does not withstand direct contact with fire. Granite is suitable for arranging fireplaces, as the temperature of the facades rarely exceeds 120 degrees Celsius. This stone does not absorb moisture, which makes it ideal for the construction of fountains, embankments, swimming pools. This parameter indirectly affects the frost resistance. Granite is used as a building and facade material. Blocks, slabs, cornices, curbs, parts of various machines, and units for the machine-tool, metallurgical and porcelain-tile industries are made of granite. Unlike metal, granite is not susceptible to acids and salts, so it is not affected by moisture. Granite countertops become useful for people day by day. Because granite countertop’s color range is easy to decorate kitchen and bathrooms. Also, granite’s resistance to fire is an essential option for countertops.
There are deposits of granite on every continent of our planet. Gray and pink granites are found in the Caucasus and in Greece. Additionally, Tile-red granites are found in the Kemerovo region and the Altay Republic. The blue-green granite, which is highly decorative, is found in the Chita region.
