igneous
Veined Basalt River Stone
Basalt with Calcite or Quartz veining
Hardness: 5-7 (Mohs); Color: Dark grey to black matrix with white veins; Luster: Dull to sub-vitreous; Texture: Fine-grained aphanitic with secondary crystalline veins.
- Hardness
- 5-7 (Mohs)
- Color
- Dark grey to black matrix with white veins
- Luster
- Dull to sub-vitreous
Identified More igneous →
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5-7 (Mohs); Color: Dark grey to black matrix with white veins; Luster: Dull to sub-vitreous; Texture: Fine-grained aphanitic with secondary crystalline veins.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the rapid cooling of magnesium-rich and iron-rich lava. The white veins represent secondary mineralization where mineral-rich water filled cracks in the rock, later crystallizing into calcite or quartz.
Uses & applications
Primarily used for decorative landscaping, aquarium decor, meditation stones, and as a durable construction aggregate in larger quantities.
Geological facts
The 'spider-web' or 'lighting' appearance is known as a brecciated or veined texture. These stones are often rounded into 'river rocks' through thousands of years of water erosion.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its heavy weight (high density), dark color, and characteristic white veins that do not scratch easily (if quartz). Common in volcanic regions and riverbeds.
