igneous
Porous volcanic stone (likely scoria)
Scoria, a vesicular basaltic to andesitic volcanic rock; exact identification cannot be confirmed from the photo
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectReddish-tan, rough and highly vesicular, with a dull to slightly earthy luster. Scoria is mainly plagioclase, pyroxene, and commonly olivine; hardness is roughly 5–6 Mohs, with no prominent cleavage and typically low density.
Identified More igneous →
Explore Porous volcanic stone (likely scoria) in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Reddish-tan, rough and highly vesicular, with a dull to slightly earthy luster. Scoria is mainly plagioclase, pyroxene, and commonly olivine; hardness is roughly 5–6 Mohs, with no prominent cleavage and typically low density.
Formation & geological history
Forms when gas-rich lava cools quickly, trapping bubbles as vesicles. It is geologically young in the broad sense of volcanic deposits, though the specimen’s age and source cannot be determined visually.
Uses & applications
Used as lightweight aggregate, drainage and landscaping stone, and sometimes in abrasive or decorative products; this small piece is mainly a curiosity or teaching specimen.
Geological facts
Its many rounded holes are gas-bubble cavities formed during eruption; scoria is generally denser and less glassy than pumice.
Field identification & locations
Look for abundant irregular vesicles and a volcanic texture; reddish or brown color commonly reflects iron oxidation. Found near basaltic and andesitic volcanoes worldwide.
