igneous
Scoria (or vesicular basalt)
Vesicular Basalt / Scoriaceous Basalt
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness 5–6, earthy to sub-vitreous luster, highly vesicular (porous) texture, dark brownish-grey to reddish-black color.
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Physical properties
Hardness 5–6, earthy to sub-vitreous luster, highly vesicular (porous) texture, dark brownish-grey to reddish-black color.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the rapid cooling of gas-rich, mafic basaltic lava expelled during volcanic eruptions, trapping escaping gas bubbles.
Uses & applications
Commonly used as lightweight aggregate in concrete, road ballast, landscaping rock, and soil conditioning.
Geological facts
Scoria is heavier and darker than pumice because it has a mafic (basaltic) composition rather than a felsic one, causing it to sink in water.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its rough, pitted, sponge-like vesicular texture and relatively light weight compared to solid basalt; abundant around volcanic cones.
