Exploring the Hardest and Widely Available Rocks: Granite, Basalt, and Quartz
When considering the hardest and most widely available rocks that are not very expensive, there are several options to choose from. Granite, basalt, and quartzite are some of the most durable and commonplace choices. These rocks are often found in construction, landscaping, and building materials due to their exceptional hardness and resilience.
Granite: A Corded Igneous Rock
Granite is an intrusive igneous rock known for its high hardness, typically ranging from 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale. Granite is widely available and relatively inexpensive, making it a popular choice for various applications. This rock is extracted from quarries and is often used in construction and decorative purposes. Its durability makes it an excellent option for countertops, flooring, and outdoor landscaping projects.
Basalt: A Common Extrusive Rock
Basalt is another option, being an extrusive igneous rock that also falls in the range of 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale. This rock is as common as granite and is often used in construction and landscaping. Basalt is typically more affordable than granite, making it a more budget-friendly choice for those looking for durable materials.
Quartzite: A Common and Durable Option
Quartzite, another hard material, has a Mohs hardness of 7. This makes it even harder than granite and basalt. Quartzite is often used in construction and landscaping due to its durability and aesthetic appeal. While it can be more expensive than granite and basalt, it is still considered a budget-friendly option compared to harder rocks like diamond (which has a Mohs hardness of 10).
Other Harsh Rock Materials
Other hard rocks, such as metamorphic rocks like gneiss and schist, which range from 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale, are also available. These rocks, while not as common as granite and basalt, offer similar hardness and can be used in similar applications.
The Rarity of Diamonds and Corundum
It is worth noting that diamond, the hardest naturally occurring substance on Earth with a Mohs hardness of 10, and corundum, which has a Mohs hardness of 9, are significantly rarer and more expensive than granite, basalt, and quartzite. While pretty corundum can be found in the form of sapphires or rubies and is often used for jewelry, the cheaper, uglier varieties are more readily available.
Practical Applications
For practical applications such as construction, landscaping, and building materials, granite, basalt, and quartzite are excellent choices due to their hardness and durability. These rocks are often used in countertops, flooring, paving stones, and decorative purposes. Additionally, they are commonly used in outdoor applications such as patios, walkways, and garden pathways.
Where to Obtain These Rocks
To obtain these rocks, you have several options:
Quarries and Suppliers: Many quarries and rock suppliers specialize in these materials and can provide you with samples or cut stones at a reasonable cost. For instance, Norstone offers grey basalt stone veneer. Local Construction Stores: Local kitchen remodeling stores or contractors may have leftover chips or pieces that they can provide for free. It doesn't hurt to ask. DIY Projects: You can also undertake your own project to extract these rocks from natural sources, such as diabase, if conditions permit. Diabase is a dense, fine-grained igneous rock that can be quite hard, particularly in certain regions.Conclusion
In conclusion, granite, basalt, and quartzite are some of the hardest rocks that are widely available and not very expensive. Their hardness, durability, and practical applications make them popular choices for a variety of construction and landscaping projects. Whether you're looking for a material for your kitchen countertops or for a large-scale construction project, these rocks offer a reliable and cost-effective solution.