igneous
Basalt (Vesicular Basalt / Scoria)
Vesicular Basalt
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness 5-6 Mohs, dark gray to black, dull/earthy luster, fine-grained with visible vesicles, specific gravity ~2.7-3.0.
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Physical properties
Hardness 5-6 Mohs, dark gray to black, dull/earthy luster, fine-grained with visible vesicles, specific gravity ~2.7-3.0.
Formation & geological history
Formed by rapid cooling of low-viscosity, gas-rich basaltic lava at or near the Earth's surface during volcanic eruptions.
Uses & applications
Commonly used as construction aggregate, railway ballast, landscaping lava rock, and thermal insulation (rock wool).
Geological facts
Basalt makes up more than 90% of all volcanic rock on Earth and dominates both the ocean floors and the lunar maria.
Field identification & locations
Identified in the field by its dark gray-to-black color, fine matrix, heavy feel, and small pitted gas cavities (vesicles).
