Rock Identifier
Pumice or Tufa/Travertine (Pumice (if igneous) or Calcareous Tufa (if sedimentary)) — igneous/sedimentary
igneous/sedimentary

Pumice or Tufa/Travertine

Pumice (if igneous) or Calcareous Tufa (if sedimentary)

Light-colored, highly vesicular (porous) texture. Hardness varies depending on exact composition but is generally moderate. Pitted surface.

Identified More igneous/sedimentary

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Physical properties

Light-colored, highly vesicular (porous) texture. Hardness varies depending on exact composition but is generally moderate. Pitted surface.

Formation & geological history

Pumice forms from highly vesicular volcanic glass. Tufa/Travertine precipitates from carbonate minerals in ambient temperature water bodies.

Uses & applications

Pumice is used as an abrasive, in lightweight concrete, and for landscaping. Tufa is used in landscaping and architecture.

Geological facts

Pumice is so light it can often float on water.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its porous, pitted structure and relatively light weight compared to its size.