igneous
Volcanic scoria (likely)
Scoria, a vesicular basaltic to andesitic volcanic rock
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectBrown-gray, rough and highly vesicular, with a granular surface and dull luster; composed mainly of plagioclase, pyroxene, and volcanic glass. Hardness is variable, roughly 5–6 Mohs for the mineral grains; the image does not reveal crystal structure clearly.
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Physical properties
Brown-gray, rough and highly vesicular, with a granular surface and dull luster; composed mainly of plagioclase, pyroxene, and volcanic glass. Hardness is variable, roughly 5–6 Mohs for the mineral grains; the image does not reveal crystal structure clearly.
Formation & geological history
Forms when gas-rich lava cools rapidly, trapping bubbles; it may be geologically recent or much older, depending on the volcanic deposit.
Uses & applications
Used as lightweight aggregate, drainage material, landscaping stone, and sometimes in decorative collections.
Geological facts
Scoria is typically denser and darker than pumice, though this specimen’s weathered surface makes identification less certain.
Field identification & locations
Look for abundant irregular cavities and a lightweight, porous texture; common around basaltic and andesitic volcanoes. Image-only identification is tentative because the specimen appears soil-coated.
