Granite is an igneous rock , specifically an intrusive (plutonic) igneous rock that forms from the slow crystallization of magma beneath the Earth's surface

. It is coarse-grained, meaning its mineral crystals are large enough to be seen with the naked eye, and is composed mainly of quartz, alkali feldspar (such as orthoclase or microcline), and plagioclase feldspar, with minor amounts of mica, amphibole, and other minerals

. Because granite cools slowly underground, its crystals have time to grow large, giving it a granular texture. The mineral composition often gives granite colors ranging from white, pink, gray, to red, with shiny flakes of mica that can sparkle in sunlight

. Granite is a common and important rock in the continental crust and is widely used in construction and decorative stone applications due to its hardness and durability

. In summary, granite is a coarse-grained, felsic intrusive igneous rock rich in quartz and feldspar minerals.