igneous
Vesicular volcanic rock (likely scoria)
Vesicular basaltic-andesite or basalt; exact composition cannot be confirmed visually
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectDark gray to brown, rough and highly porous, with abundant rounded gas cavities (vesicles); likely fine-grained between holes. Hardness and luster are not reliably determined from the photo; scoria is typically Mohs 5–6 and dull.
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Physical properties
Dark gray to brown, rough and highly porous, with abundant rounded gas cavities (vesicles); likely fine-grained between holes. Hardness and luster are not reliably determined from the photo; scoria is typically Mohs 5–6 and dull.
Formation & geological history
Forms when gas-rich lava cools quickly, trapping bubbles; commonly associated with relatively young volcanic eruptions. No age or precise setting can be determined from the image.
Uses & applications
Used as lightweight aggregate, landscaping stone, and abrasive; small pieces are also collected as volcanic specimens.
Geological facts
The holes are vesicles left by escaping volcanic gases. Scoria is generally denser and darker than pumice, though a photo alone cannot establish the distinction.
Field identification & locations
Look for a dark, rough volcanic texture with many cavities and comparatively heavy feel; common near basaltic volcanic fields and cinder cones. Composition and locality would help distinguish scoria from vesicular basalt or industrial slag.
