igneous
Basalt Pebble
Basalt
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 6 on Mohs scale. Color: Dark gray to black with brownish-yellow iron oxidation weathering stains. Luster: Dull, earthy. Texture: Fine-grained (aphanitic), rounded and river-worn pebble shape.
- Hardness
- 6 on Mohs scale
- Luster
- Dull, earthy
Identified More igneous →
Explore Basalt Pebble in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 6 on Mohs scale. Color: Dark gray to black with brownish-yellow iron oxidation weathering stains. Luster: Dull, earthy. Texture: Fine-grained (aphanitic), rounded and river-worn pebble shape.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the rapid cooling of magnesium-rich and iron-rich lava at or near the surface of Earth. Over time, erosion from water or ice rounded the stone into a smooth pebble.
Uses & applications
Used widely as crushed stone in construction, road base, asphalt concrete, and river rock landscaping. Small pebbles are collected casually or used in decorative crafts.
Geological facts
Basalt is the most common rock type in the Earth's crust, making up most of the oceanic crust as well as vast volcanic plateaus on land like the Columbia River Basalt Group.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its fine-grained texture, dark color, and high density relative to lighter rocks like granite. Found worldwide along beaches, riverbeds, and volcanic terrain. No major commercial value for single small pebbles.
