Comparison · Igneous Rocks
Aplite vs Granite
Aplite and Granite are easy to confuse because both are igneous rocks. Both sit near Mohs 6, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead. Below is a side-by-side comparison of their properties and the quick tests that separate them.
Key differences between Aplite and Granite
- Both sit near Mohs 6, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead.
- Streak color differs: Aplite leaves a white to pale pink streak on unglazed porcelain, Granite leaves variable; test individual minerals.
- Luster is different: Aplite is dull while Granite is vitreous.
- They overlap in white, pink, and gray, but Aplite also comes in brown and Granite also comes in black.
Aplite vs Granite properties
| Property | Aplite | Granite |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Igneous Rocks | Igneous Rocks |
| Mohs hardness | 6 | 6.5 |
| Luster | dull | vitreous |
| Streak | White to pale pink | Variable; test individual minerals |
| Transparency | opaque | opaque |
| Specific gravity | 2.65 | 2.7 |
| Crystal system | varies | varies |
| Common colors | White, Pink, Cream, Light gray, Tan | Pink, Gray, White, Black |
| Rarity | common | common |
| Typical specimen value | $1–$75+ | $1–$50+ |
Which is more valuable?
Typical specimens of Aplite and Granite trade in a similar range, around $10.
About Aplite
Aplite is a light-colored, fine-grained granitic igneous rock. It often appears white, pink, cream, or light gray and may occur as narrow dikes or veins.
About Granite
Granite is a coarse-grained igneous rock composed mainly of quartz, feldspar, and mica. It's one of the most common rocks in Earth's continental crust.
Aplite vs Granite FAQ
Is Aplite the same as Granite?
No. Both are igneous rocks, but they are distinct rock types with different hardness, streak or luster. Both sit near Mohs 6, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead.
How can you tell Aplite from Granite?
Both sit near Mohs 6, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead. Streak color differs: Aplite leaves a white to pale pink streak on unglazed porcelain, Granite leaves variable; test individual minerals. Luster is different: Aplite is dull while Granite is vitreous.
Which is harder, Aplite or Granite?
Granite is harder: Mohs 6.5 against Mohs 6 for Aplite.
Which is more valuable, Aplite or Granite?
Typical specimens of Aplite and Granite trade in a similar range, around $10.
