igneous
Basalt
Extrusive igneous rock
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 6 on the Mohs scale, dark gray to black color, aphanitic texture with a dull luster, and composed mainly of plagioclase and pyroxene.
Identified More igneous →
Explore Basalt in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness of 6 on the Mohs scale, dark gray to black color, aphanitic texture with a dull luster, and composed mainly of plagioclase and pyroxene.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the rapid cooling of low-viscosity lava rich in iron and magnesium exposed at or very near the surface of a planet or moon.
Uses & applications
Widely used in construction for crushed stone, aggregate in concrete, road base, and in the manufacturing of rock wool insulation.
Geological facts
Basalt is the most common rock type in the Earth's crust underlying the world's ocean basins and also makes up extensive volcanic formations on the Moon and Mars.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its dark, fine-grained appearance and heavy weight relative to its size, commonly found in volcanic provinces worldwide.
