igneous
Mexican Beach Pebbles
Vesicular Basalt / Andesite (Polished by erosion)
Hardness (Mohs): 6.0; Color: Dark gray, charcoal, and bluish-black; Luster: Dull until wet; Crystal Structure: Aphanitic (fine-grained); Specific Gravity: 2.7-3.0
- Color
- Dark gray, charcoal, and bluish-black
- Luster
- Dull until wet
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Physical properties
Hardness (Mohs): 6.0; Color: Dark gray, charcoal, and bluish-black; Luster: Dull until wet; Crystal Structure: Aphanitic (fine-grained); Specific Gravity: 2.7-3.0
Formation & geological history
Formed through volcanic activity where lava cooled quickly on the surface. These specific specimens were smoothed over centuries by coastal wave action along the beaches of Baja California, Mexico.
Uses & applications
Primary uses include high-end landscaping, decorative garden borders, interior design accents, drainage features, and water fountains.
Geological facts
Also known as La Paz pebbles, these stones are hand-picked from beaches. Their perfectly smooth, rounded shape is a result of the high-energy Pacific surf constantly tumbling them against one another.
Field identification & locations
Identify by their smooth, matte finish and uniform dark gray color that turns jet black when wet. They are commonly found in the Baja California peninsula shoreline. Collectors look for consistent sizing and lack of cracks.
