igneous
Red Scoria
Vesicular Basaltic Andesite
Hardness: 5-6 Mohs; Color: reddish-brown to dark red; Luster: dull/earthy; Structure: highly vesicular (pitted with gas bubbles); Specific Gravity: 2.3-2.7 (lightweight due to air pockets).
- Hardness
- 5-6 Mohs
- Color
- reddish-brown to dark red
- Luster
- dull/earthy
Identified More igneous →
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5-6 Mohs; Color: reddish-brown to dark red; Luster: dull/earthy; Structure: highly vesicular (pitted with gas bubbles); Specific Gravity: 2.3-2.7 (lightweight due to air pockets).
Formation & geological history
Formed from the rapid cooling of gas-rich mafic or intermediate lava. The red color indicates oxidation of iron (rusting) either during or shortly after the eruption.
Uses & applications
Used extensively in landscaping, gas grills (lava rocks), drainage systems, high-temperature insulation, and lightweight concrete aggregates.
Geological facts
Scoria is different from pumice because it is denser and has larger vesicles with thicker walls. Unlike pumice, most scoria does not float in water.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its 'Swiss cheese' texture and rough, abrasive surface. Common in volcanic regions such as Indonesia (Papua region) where basaltic volcanism is prevalent.
