How do I identify Trachyte?

Trachyte can be identified by its hardness of 6 on the Mohs scale, Variable color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.

What color is Trachyte?

Trachyte typically appears in Variable, often light colored. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.

How hard is Trachyte?

Trachyte has a hardness of 6 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.

Trachyte

A variety of Igneous

Rare

What is Trachyte?

Trachyte is a volcanic rock that is primarily composed of alkali feldspar. This attractive mineral is commonly used in stone buildings, all the way back to ancient Rome. Several prominent natural features, including Mount Kilimanjaro, are also predominantly composed of trachyte.

Uses & Applications

When polished, trachyte is often used as a decorative construction material, often as flooring or countertops or even tombstones. It is also suitable for constructing walls and can be found as the foundational stone for many houses. This attractive stone may also be carved for use in statues and monuments.

Trachyte Market Value Calculator

Estimate the market value of Trachyte using size, quality, and finish. This preview calculator is for quick context and is not a formal appraisal.

Trachyte Localities Map

See where Trachyte is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.

Map preview

North ZoneCentral RidgeSouth Basin

Geochemistry

Chemically, trachyte contains 60 to 65% silica content; less SiO2 than rhyolite and more (Na2O plus K2O) than dacite. These chemical differences are consistent with the position of trachyte in the TAS classification, and they account for the feldspar-rich mineralogy of the rock type.

Key Characteristics

Composition of Trachyte

Trachyte has a silica content of 60 to 65% and an alkali oxide content of over 7%. This gives it less SiO2 than rhyolite and more (Na2O plus K2O) than dacite.