Volcanic Bomb — Breadcrust — Specimen Grade

$124.73
Chemical FormulaBasaltic glass and crystalline basalt
Crystal System
Mohs Hardness5–6
Specific Gravity2.7–2.9
LusterDull to vesicular
TransparencyOpaque

Breadcrust bombs are blobs of lava ejected from volcanoes that crack on the surface during flight — the interior continues expanding from dissolved gas while the outer skin cools a…

29 in stock

SKU: TC-GEO-0822
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Description

Science and beauty are rarely in conflict. Here they converge. Breadcrust bombs are blobs of lava ejected from volcanoes that crack on the surface during flight — the interior continues expanding from dissolved gas while the outer skin cools and solidifies, producing the distinctive cracked-crust pattern. Stromboli has been erupting continuously for 2,000+ years; these bombs were formed in eruptions witnessed by human observers.

This specimen originates from Stromboli, Sicily, Italy, one of the world’s most significant localities for this type of material. Collectors and scientists have drawn from this region for generations, and for good reason: the combination of geological conditions here produces specimens of exceptional quality and clarity.

Every specimen is unique. Photographs approximate the visual experience, but the real thing — its weight, its luster under a raking light, the way it catches the corner of your eye — can only be experienced directly.

Formation

This specimen formed through geological processes operating over timescales that dwarf human history. The specific combination of chemistry, temperature, pressure, and time at this locality produced material of exceptional quality that makes it a valued addition to any serious collection.

Locality

Volcanic Bomb — Breadcrust — Specimen Grade from Stromboli, Sicily, Italy. This locality is known for producing specimens of exceptional quality.

Collector Notes

Dust with a soft brush; avoid water for soft minerals (hardness below 4).