Granite is a very hard natural igneous rock formation of a visibly crystalline texture formed essentially of quartz and orthoclase or microcline. Granite can be recognized because it is the most common igneous rock found on Earth’s surface and because granite is used to make many objects that people encounter in daily life. These include curbing, countertops, paving stone, floor tiles, stair treads, building veneer, and cemetery monuments. Granite is used all around the world – especially if you live in a large modern city.