A general term for any crystalline, granular, unstratified igneous stone which is an intimate amalgam of quartz, potash feldspar, and mica.
Granite is of world-wide distribution and has many varieties, differing in texture and coarseness.
Nevertheless, its durability and resistance to weather have made it popular for monumental sculpture and at all times when permanence was valued, notably in ancient Egypt. Granite has been used comparatively little for sculpture on a small scale, since its properties preclude delicate carving. Oxford Dictionary Of Art. The contents of this site, including all images and text, are for personal, educational, non-commercial use only.