igneous
Pumice
Pumice (Vesicular Felsic Igneous Rock)
Hardness: 6 on the Mohs scale; Color: White, grey, yellowish, or brown; Luster: Earthy to dull; Structure: Highly vesicular, glassy texture; Specific Gravity: Less than 1.0 (it floats on water)
- Hardness
- 6 on the Mohs scale
- Color
- White, grey, yellowish, or brown
- Luster
- Earthy to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6 on the Mohs scale; Color: White, grey, yellowish, or brown; Luster: Earthy to dull; Structure: Highly vesicular, glassy texture; Specific Gravity: Less than 1.0 (it floats on water)
Formation & geological history
Formed from explosive volcanic eruptions where gas-rich felsic lava cools rapidly, causing dissolved gases to bubble out and become trapped as the lava solidifies into a glass foam.
Uses & applications
Used in lightweight concrete, landscaping, abrasive soaps, pumice stones for personal care, and horticulture as a soil amendment.
Geological facts
Pumice is one of the very few rocks that can float on water due to its high concentration of trapped gas bubbles.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its extremely low weight, pale color, and vesicular 'foamy' texture with numerous small holes. Found worldwide near active or ancient volcanic regions.
