In Stock
BASALT ROCK
Authentic Geological Sample: Naturally sourced basalt with preserved texture and mineral inclusions for accurate study and analysis.
Standardized Size and Weight: Uniform specimens designed for easy handling, display, and laboratory experiments without compromising scientific integrity.
₹235.00
Quick Answer: Basalt is a dark, fine-grained extrusive igneous rock formed from rapidly cooled, iron- and magnesium-rich lava — it’s the most common volcanic rock on Earth and a standard reference specimen for teaching extrusive igneous processes.
Product Description
Basalt forms when mafic (iron- and magnesium-rich) lava erupts at the surface and cools quickly, giving it a characteristic fine-grained or glassy texture because there isn’t time for large mineral crystals to grow. It’s the dominant rock type of oceanic crust and forms extensive lava flows at volcanic hotspots and mid-ocean ridges, making it one of the most abundant rock types on the planet. This specimen gives students a hands-on reference for what “extrusive” and “mafic” actually look and feel like, rather than just definitions on a page.
Mineralogically, basalt is typically composed mainly of plagioclase feldspar and pyroxene, often with some olivine. Its fine grain size directly contrasts with slow-cooled intrusive rocks like gabbro, which share a similar chemical composition but develop much larger crystals underground. Comparing the two side by side is one of the clearest ways to teach how cooling rate controls rock texture in igneous petrology.
Specimen Details
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Rock type | Extrusive (volcanic) igneous rock |
| Composition | Mafic — mainly plagioclase feldspar and pyroxene, often with olivine |
| Texture | Fine-grained to aphanitic, due to rapid surface cooling |
| Colour | Typically dark grey to black |
| Intrusive equivalent | Gabbro (same chemistry, coarser crystals from slow cooling) |
| Typical use | Igneous rock classification and rock-cycle teaching |
Applications
- Teaching the distinction between extrusive and intrusive igneous rocks
- Demonstrating how cooling rate controls crystal size and texture
- Building a reference collection of the main igneous rock types
- Introductory volcanology and plate-tectonics context (oceanic crust composition)
Care & Handling
Basalt is a durable, low-maintenance specimen, but store it separated from softer specimens in a compartmented tray to avoid scratching them. No special humidity or light precautions are needed.
Why Choose LabEquip
This basalt specimen is part of LabEquip’s wider Educational Rock and Minerals range. Pair it with a gabbro or granite specimen from the same range to build a full igneous rock comparison set, or explore our Educational Science Models for related classroom visual aids.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of rock is basalt?
Basalt is an extrusive (volcanic) igneous rock, formed when mafic lava cools quickly at or near the Earth’s surface.
Why is basalt fine-grained?
Because it cools rapidly at the surface, there isn’t enough time for large mineral crystals to grow, resulting in a fine-grained or glassy texture.
What minerals make up basalt?
Basalt is mainly composed of plagioclase feldspar and pyroxene, often with some olivine present as well.
How does basalt relate to gabbro?
Gabbro has essentially the same mafic chemical composition as basalt but cools slowly underground, producing much larger, visible crystals. They’re often taught as an extrusive/intrusive pair.
Why is basalt important in geology?
It’s the dominant rock of oceanic crust and one of the most common rock types on Earth, making it central to teaching plate tectonics and volcanic processes.
What level is this specimen suited to?
It works well for middle and secondary school earth science, and as a reference specimen in introductory college igneous petrology courses.
Last Updated: September 2026
You must be logged in to post a review.
Bestsellers
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.