igneous
Basalt pendant
Basalt; predominantly plagioclase feldspar, pyroxene, and commonly olivine
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectDark gray to black, fine-grained, dull to subtly vitreous luster; typically massive with no visible cleavage. Hardness about 5–6 Mohs and specific gravity roughly 2.8–3.0; the surface appears carved or roughly polished.
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Physical properties
Dark gray to black, fine-grained, dull to subtly vitreous luster; typically massive with no visible cleavage. Hardness about 5–6 Mohs and specific gravity roughly 2.8–3.0; the surface appears carved or roughly polished.
Formation & geological history
An extrusive igneous rock formed when basaltic lava cooled rapidly at or near Earth’s surface, commonly during volcanic eruptions from the Precambrian to the present. The exact specimen age and locality cannot be determined from the image.
Uses & applications
Used extensively as crushed aggregate, road stone, building stone, paving, and ornamental material; shaped pieces are also used in jewelry and pendants.
Geological facts
Basalt is Earth’s most abundant volcanic rock and forms much of the oceanic crust. Some basalt contains vesicles, but this pendant appears relatively dense and non-vesicular.
Field identification & locations
Identify it by its uniformly dark color, fine texture, heavy feel, and lack of large crystals; a magnet may show weak attraction if iron-rich. Common worldwide, especially in volcanic regions and oceanic settings.
