Rock Identifier
Lava Rock (Dyed) (Basalt / Volcanic scoria) — igneous
igneous

Lava Rock (Dyed)

Basalt / Volcanic scoria

Hardness of 5-6 on the Mohs scale, highly porous texture, dull to sub-vitreous luster, fine-grained aphanitic crystal structure, dark color naturally but dyed green and blue in these beads, specific gravity around 2.4-2.8

Identified More igneous
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Physical properties

Hardness of 5-6 on the Mohs scale, highly porous texture, dull to sub-vitreous luster, fine-grained aphanitic crystal structure, dark color naturally but dyed green and blue in these beads, specific gravity around 2.4-2.8

Formation & geological history

Formed from molten basaltic lava that rapidly cools and solidifies when erupting at or near the Earth's surface, trapping gas bubbles which create the characteristic vesicular (porous) texture

Uses & applications

Widely used in jewelry making as diffuser beads for essential oils, landscaping, barbecues, and lightweight construction aggregate

Geological facts

Lava stone is one of the oldest and most abundant rocks on Earth and the moon; the porous nature makes it excellent for holding and slowly releasing essential oil scents

Field identification & locations

Easily identified by its lightweight, highly porous, vesicular appearance, though these particular beads have been artificially dyed in vibrant green and blue hues