igneous
Quartz-veined Basalt
Metabasalto / SiO2 vein in mafic rock
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 6-7 on Mohs scale due to the quartz vein; dark gray to greenish-black host rock with a stark white mineral vein; dull to vitreous luster; massive and microcrystalline structure.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 6-7 on Mohs scale due to the quartz vein; dark gray to greenish-black host rock with a stark white mineral vein; dull to vitreous luster; massive and microcrystalline structure.
Formation & geological history
Formed via cooling of mafic volcanic lava, later fractured and hydrothermally injected with silica-rich fluids precipitating quartz.
Uses & applications
Used primarily in local aggregate construction, road metal, and as geological indicator specimens for hydrothermal activity.
Geological facts
White quartz veins cutting through darker volcanic host rocks are common geological features known as hydrothermal quartz veins, representing ancient mineralizing fluid pathways.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified in the field by the high-contrast white quartz vein traversing a dark, fine-grained volcanic matrix. Common in volcanic regions worldwide.
