igneous
Red Lava Rock
Scoria
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness 5-6 on the Mohs scale, reddish-brown to dark red color, dull to vitreous luster, highly vesicular (porous) aphanitic texture, and specific gravity around 2.0-2.5.
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Physical properties
Hardness 5-6 on the Mohs scale, reddish-brown to dark red color, dull to vitreous luster, highly vesicular (porous) aphanitic texture, and specific gravity around 2.0-2.5.
Formation & geological history
Formed from gas-rich mafic to intermediate lava ejected from volcanic vents, cooling rapidly while gas bubbles are trapped inside, creating a vesicular texture.
Uses & applications
Widely used in landscaping, gas grills, lightweight aggregate for concrete, horticulture as soil amendment, and occasionally in skin care for exfoliation.
Geological facts
Scoria has such high porosity and low density that many pieces can actually float on water until they become fully waterlogged.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its rough, bubbly, sponge-like vesicular texture and dark reddish-brown color; commonly found near volcanic fields and cinder cones worldwide.
