igneous
Basalt Pebble
Extrusive Igneous Rock
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 6 on the Mohs scale, dark gray to black color, fine-grained aphanitic texture, dull luster, and high specific gravity.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 6 on the Mohs scale, dark gray to black color, fine-grained aphanitic texture, dull luster, and high specific gravity.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the rapid cooling of low-viscosity basaltic lava exposed at or very near the Earth's surface.
Uses & applications
Widely used in construction, road aggregate, railroad ballast, and decorative landscaping.
Geological facts
Basalt is the most common rock type in the Earth's crustal portions underlying the ocean basins and forms much of the volcanic islands worldwide.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its heavy weight, dark color, and fine-grained texture, commonly found along riverbeds and coastlines where water action has smoothed it into a pebble.
