igneous
Diabase
Mafic intrusive igneous rock
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness 6-7, dark gray to black color, submetallic to dull luster, ophitic crystal texture with visible plagioclase feldspar and pyroxene.
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Physical properties
Hardness 6-7, dark gray to black color, submetallic to dull luster, ophitic crystal texture with visible plagioclase feldspar and pyroxene.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow cooling and crystallization of basaltic magma in shallow dikes or sills.
Uses & applications
Widely used as crushed stone for construction, road aggregate, and dimension stone.
Geological facts
Diabase is chemically identical to basalt and gabbro, differing only in crystal grain size and cooling rate.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its dense, dark matrix with intergrown light-colored laths of feldspar; commonly found in ancient rift zones and volcanic provinces.
