Lava Stone
Basalt (Igneous Rock / Volcanic Glass and Mineral Aggregate) · Decorative Stone / Holistic Mineral Specimen
Crystal System
Amorphous to Microcrystalline (Varies by constituent minerals like plagioclase feldspar, pyroxene, and olivine)
Mineral Group
Silicates (Igneous Rock)
Chemical Formula
Complex silicate mixture containing SiO2, Al2O3, FeO, MgO, CaO, and Na2O
Formation Process
Igneous process formed when molten lava erupts to the surface, cools rapidly, and traps gas bubbles which create the characteristic vesicular texture
About This Crystal
Dark charcoal to black rounded tumbled stone featuring a highly porous, vesicular texture with numerous small pits and cavities across the matte surface
Physical Characteristics
Color is black to dark gray with a white to gray streak; opaque; vesicular, massive habit; no true cleavage; uneven to conchoidal fracture; specific gravity ranges from 2.7 to 3.0; brittle tenacity
Optical Properties
Opaque with a dull to earthy luster; exhibits no significant optical phenomena such as refraction, pleochroism, or dispersion
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Global distribution associated with volcanic regions such as Iceland, Italy, Hawaii, and Indonesia
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of approximately 5.5 to 6; moderate toughness but highly porous structure can make it somewhat fragile under heavy pressure; moderate durability for jewelry use
Care & Maintenance
Can be cleaned safely with warm soapy water; should be dried thoroughly; sensitive to harsh acids; highly porous nature means it can absorb oils, making it popular for diffusing essential oils
Rarity & Value
Common; widely accessible and very affordable, typically sold in bulk or as low-cost individual tumbled stones and jewelry components with no major enhancements required
Special Characteristics
Highly porous vesicular texture allows it to absorb and slowly diffuse essential oils, making it exceptionally popular in aromatherapy jewelry
Lore & History
Associated traditionally with the Root Chakra, representing grounding, strength, and rebirth; widely used in modern metaphysical practices to provide emotional stability and calm, though these are traditional beliefs and not scientific claims