igneous
Basalt with Fusion Crust (Meteorite-like appearance)
Vesicular Basalt
Hardness: 5-6 Mohs. Color: Dark brown to black. Luster: Dull to sub-metallic. Crystal structure: Aphanitic (fine-grained). Specific Gravity: 2.8-3.0. Features vesicles and a weathered exterior.
- Hardness
- 5-6 Mohs
- Color
- Dark brown to black
- Luster
- Dull to sub-metallic
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5-6 Mohs. Color: Dark brown to black. Luster: Dull to sub-metallic. Crystal structure: Aphanitic (fine-grained). Specific Gravity: 2.8-3.0. Features vesicles and a weathered exterior.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the rapid cooling of magnesium-rich and iron-rich lava at or near the Earth's surface. While it resembles a meteorite due to the dark, 'burnt' exterior, it is likely a terrestrial volcanic rock from the Cenozoic era.
Uses & applications
Used primarily in construction as aggregate, for road base, or as decorative garden stones. If confirmed as a meteorite (though unlikely without lab testing), it would have high scientific research value.
Geological facts
Terrestrial rocks like this are often mistaken for meteorites (known as 'meteorwrongs') because weathering can create a dark coating that mimics a fusion crust. Basalt is the most common rock type in the Earth's crust.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its weight (basalt is heavy but less dense than iron meteorites) and lack of magnetism (unless it contains magnetite). Common in volcanic regions such as the Deccan Traps or Iceland.
