igneous
Pumice
Pumice (Vesicular Felsic Igneous Rock)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 6 on the Mohs scale. Colors range from white, grey, yellowish, to brown. Exhibits a vesicular and glassy texture with a dull luster and low specific gravity, often floating on water.
Identified More igneous →
Explore Pumice in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness of 6 on the Mohs scale. Colors range from white, grey, yellowish, to brown. Exhibits a vesicular and glassy texture with a dull luster and low specific gravity, often floating on water.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the rapid cooling of gas-rich felsic lava, typically during explosive volcanic eruptions, trapping gas bubbles within the glassy matrix.
Uses & applications
Widely used in lightweight construction aggregates, abrasive soaps, cosmetic exfoliating products, and horticultural soil amendments.
Geological facts
Pumice is one of the few rocks that can float on water due to its high porosity and trapped air chambers. It has been utilized since antiquity for polishing and exfoliation.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its extremely light weight, pale color, and numerous visible gas vesicles. Found globally near active or historic volcanic regions, especially subduction zones.
