igneous
Gabbro
Mafic Intrusive Igneous Rock
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 6 on the Mohs scale. Composed mainly of calcium-rich plagioclase feldspar and pyroxene with sub-to-euhedral crystal structures. Displays dark gray to black coloring with a vitreous to dull luster and specific gravity around 2.9-3.2.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 6 on the Mohs scale. Composed mainly of calcium-rich plagioclase feldspar and pyroxene with sub-to-euhedral crystal structures. Displays dark gray to black coloring with a vitreous to dull luster and specific gravity around 2.9-3.2.
Formation & geological history
Formed by the slow cooling of magnesium- and iron-rich magma beneath the Earth's surface into a coarse-grained intrusive rock.
Uses & applications
Used in construction as crushed stone, dimension stone for building facades, floor tiles, and cemetery memorials.
Geological facts
Gabbro is the intrusive equivalent of basalt and makes up a major portion of the oceanic crust.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its dark, coarse-grained texture lacking quartz. Commonly found in layered intrusions and oceanic ridges worldwide.
