igneous
Flowerstone
Porphyritic Basalt or Porphyritic Andesite
Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs scale); Color: Dark green to black matrix with white, cream, or yellowish 'flower' patterns (phenocrysts); Luster: Dull to sub-vitreous; Crystal structure: Aphanitic (fine-grained) matrix with visible plagioclase feldspar laths; Specific gravity: 2.8-3.0.
- Hardness
- 6-7 (Mohs scale)
- Luster
- Dull to sub-vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs scale); Color: Dark green to black matrix with white, cream, or yellowish 'flower' patterns (phenocrysts); Luster: Dull to sub-vitreous; Crystal structure: Aphanitic (fine-grained) matrix with visible plagioclase feldspar laths; Specific gravity: 2.8-3.0.
Formation & geological history
Formed through volcanic activity where magma begins cooling slowly underground, allowing large crystals (phenocrysts) to grow, followed by a rapid surface eruption that cools the remaining 'groundmass' quickly. Most Pacific Northwest specimens date to the Triassic or Jurassic periods.
Uses & applications
Primarily used as a lapidary material for jewelry, cabochons, and decorative ornamental stones. Occasionally used in landscaping and as a highly sought-after specimen for rock collectors.
Geological facts
The 'flowers' in the stone are actually radial clusters of plagioclase feldspar crystals. It is the unofficial 'rock of Vancouver Island' and is prized by beachcombers for its unique celestial or floral appearance.
Field identification & locations
Identified by the distinct contrast between the dark, smooth matrix and the star-shaped or flower-like light mineral clusters. Commonly found on the beaches of Vancouver Island (notably Texada Island and Campbell River) and the Olympic Peninsula. Wetting the stone reveals the pattern more clearly.
