igneous
Vesicular Basalt with Calcification
Vesicular Basalt (Aphanitic extrusive igneous rock)
Hardness: 5-6 Mohs. Color: Dark grey to black matrix with white mineral infilling. Luster: Dull to earthy. Texture: Vesicular (pitted). Crystal structure: Microcrystalline.
- Hardness
- 5-6 Mohs
- Color
- Dark grey to black matrix with white mineral infilling
- Luster
- Dull to earthy
Identified More igneous →
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5-6 Mohs. Color: Dark grey to black matrix with white mineral infilling. Luster: Dull to earthy. Texture: Vesicular (pitted). Crystal structure: Microcrystalline.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the rapid cooling of magnesium-rich and iron-rich lava at the earth's surface. The pits (vesicles) are left by gas bubbles trapped during cooling. The white portion is likely a secondary mineral like calcite or quartz that filled the voids later.
Uses & applications
Common basalt is used in construction as crushed stone for road base or railroad ballast. Vesicular varieties are decorative in landscaping or used as abrasive 'lava rocks'.
Geological facts
Basalt is the most common rock type in the Earth's crust and makes up most of the ocean floor. It is also found extensively on the Moon and Mars.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its heavy weight (density), dark color, and characteristic gas bubbles or 'pitted' look. Commonly found in volcanic fields, oceanic islands (like Hawaii), and mid-ocean ridges.
