Diorite vs Granite: What Are They, And What’s The Difference?

Diorite and granite are two similar rocks that are often confused with one another.

Keep reading the article below to learn more about the origins, formation, location, and properties of each rock.

Diorite vs Granite: Explained

Due to their origins, diorite and granite have some similarities in their appearance and location.

However, upon taking a closer look, one will notice the primary difference in appearance is that diorite is darker in color.

The chemical compositions are also very different.

The chemical composition of granite varies, but it often contains Al₂O₃,CaO,MgO and Fe₂O₃.

The chemical composition of diorite also varies, but it is always intermediate (meaning the rock has around 50% (52%-63%) by weight of silicon dioxide.

As igneous rocks, both diorite and granite form from the cooling and solidification of molten rock. However, there are some important differences between these two types of rock.

For one, diorite is usually darker in color than granite, with a gray or bluish-gray hue. It also has a more fine-grained texture than granite, which tends to be coarser.

Diorite is typically made up of feldspar, quartz, and other minerals like hornblende or biotite.

On the other hand, granite usually contains a higher percentage of quartz than diorite does.

Geologically speaking, diorite is an intrusive igneous rock, which means it forms from molten rock that cools and solidifies below the Earth’s surface.

Granite, on the other hand, is classified as an extrusive igneous rock because it forms from lava that cools and solidifies above ground.

Generally speaking, diorite is a harder, more durable rock than granite, making it a better choice for many construction and landscaping projects.

However, granite has a more polished look, which some people prefer.

So, when choosing between diorite and granite, it really comes down to personal preference and the specific project you’re working on.

If you need a tough, long-lasting rock, diorite is a good option.

If you’re looking for a rock with a more polished appearance, granite may be the better choice.

Diorite vs Granite Hardness

Granite is a 6 on the Moh’s scale.

Diorite, on the other hand, is just slightly softer, around 5.5.

These materials are very close in hardness, and may be difficult to differentiate with an amateur scratch test (with a piece of quartz, for example).

How Do You Identify Diorite?

Diorite can be distinguished from granite by its dark color and fine-grained texture.

It’s also usually more difficult to find large, intact diorite samples because this rock is less resistant to weathering and erosion than granite.

How Do You Identify Granite?

Granite is usually lighter in color than diorite, with a pink, white, or grayish hue.

It also has a coarser texture than diorite, with visible crystals of quartz and other minerals.

Is Diorite Intrusive or Extrusive?

Diorite is an intrusive igneous rock, which means it forms from molten rock that cools and solidifies below the Earth’s surface.

Is Granite Intrusive or Extrusive?

Granite is also an intrusive igneous rock.

Is Diorite Aphanitic or Phaneritic?

Diorite is generally aphanitic, which means it has an fine-grained texture.

Is Granite Aphanitic or Phaneritic?

Granite is phaneritic, which means it has an Coarse-grained texture.

What Is Diorite Used For?

Diorite is used for a variety of purposes, including construction, landscaping, and monuments.

It is also a popular choice for countertops and flooring.

What Is Granite Used For?

Like diorite, granite is often used in construction, landscapring, and monuments.

Many people also like it for countertops and decorating.

Is Diorite a Mineral or a Rock?

Diorite is a rock, specifically an igneous rock.

Granite is also an igneous rock.

Meaning of Diorite

Diorite is associated with calm and serenity.

People who utilize diorite swear by its ability to sooth strong negative feelings (fear, sadness, anger).

People who are looking to get a good night’s sleep might keep diorite close by.

Meaning of Granite

Granite is associated with strength and stability.

People who utilize granite keep it in places (such as where situations or emotions can get turbulent but shouldn’t) like the office or the family room.