More specifically, granite is a type of plutonic igneous rock. This means:

* Igneous: It formed from the cooling and solidification of magma (molten rock) or lava.

* Plutonic: It cooled and solidified slowly deep underground.

Granite is also part of a group called felsic rocks. Felsic rocks are characterized by a high percentage of silica (SiO2) and light-colored minerals like quartz and feldspar.