By definition, basalt is an aphanitic igneous rock with less than 20% quartz and less than 10% feldspathoid by volume, and where at least 65% of the feldspar is in the form of plagioclase. Basalt features a glassy matrix interspersed with minerals. The average density is 3.0 gm/cm3.
Basalt is defined by its mineral content and texture, and physical descriptions without mineralogical context may be unreliable in some circumstances. Basalt is usually grey to black in colour, but rapidly weathers to brown or rust-red due to oxidation of its mafic (iron-rich) minerals into rust. Although usually characterized as “dark”, basaltic rocks exhibit a wide range of shading due to regional geochemical processes.
Due to weathering or high concentrations of plagioclase, some basalts are quite light coloured, superficially resembling rhyolite to untrained eyes. Basalt has a fine-grained mineral texture due to the molten rock cooling too quickly for large mineral crystals to grow,although it is often porphyritic, containing the larger crystals formed prior to the extrusion that brought the lava to the surface, embedded in a finer-grained matrix.
Basalt with a vesicular or frothy texture is called scoria, and forms when dissolved gases are forced out of solution and form vesicles as the lava decompresses as it reaches the surface.
Can be used in a variety of interior and exterior applications kitchens worktops, bathroom, bench tops, bath surrounds, vanity tops, countertops, table tops, splash backs, up-stands, cupboard tops, bar tops, retail counter tops, restaurant counter and servery tops, hotel and reception foyer, staircases -treads and risers- and other surfaces.
Available Colours for Basalt Worktops
As stone is a natural material and subject to variations in colour, pattern and texture from block to block, this samples are indicative only.
