igneous
Vesicular basalt with a pale mineral fragment
Basalt; predominantly plagioclase, pyroxene, and iron-titanium oxides
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectDark, fine-grained volcanic rock with abundant rounded vesicles and brown weathering; typically Mohs 5–6, dull to subvitreous luster, and no visible cleavage. The central white fragment is likely plagioclase, quartz, or weathered feldspar, but cannot be identified confidently from the image.
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Physical properties
Dark, fine-grained volcanic rock with abundant rounded vesicles and brown weathering; typically Mohs 5–6, dull to subvitreous luster, and no visible cleavage. The central white fragment is likely plagioclase, quartz, or weathered feldspar, but cannot be identified confidently from the image.
Formation & geological history
Basalt forms when low-silica lava rapidly cools at or near Earth’s surface, commonly in volcanic flows; its age depends on the locality and may range from recent to Precambrian. Vesicles formed from gas bubbles trapped during solidification.
Uses & applications
Crushed basalt is widely used as road aggregate, railway ballast, riprap, and concrete aggregate; dense varieties are also used as building stone. Ordinary specimens have little jewelry value.
Geological facts
The numerous rounded cavities are diagnostic of vesicular basalt or scoria, though this sample appears relatively dense and weathered. The image may show an exposed basaltic pavement rather than a single hand specimen.
Field identification & locations
Identify it by its dark color, fine texture, iron-rich weathering, and gas cavities; test hardness against glass and inspect fresh surfaces for tiny gray plagioclase crystals. Common worldwide in volcanic regions, especially oceanic islands and flood-basalt provinces.
