Texture:
* Rough: Basalt is often rough to the touch, especially freshly broken pieces.
* Porous: Many basalts have a slightly porous surface, giving a slightly grainy feel.
* Cool: Even in warm climates, basalt will feel cool to the touch due to its density and ability to retain heat.
Weight:
* Heavy: Basalt is a dense rock, so it feels heavy for its size.
Sound:
* Clicky: When you knock two pieces of basalt together, they make a sharp, clicking sound.
Other details:
* Sharp edges: Freshly broken basalt often has sharp edges.
* Smooth: Over time, exposure to the elements can wear down the surface of basalt, making it smoother.
* Color: While generally dark, basalt can vary in color from dark gray to black, and sometimes even reddish or brown depending on the minerals present.
Overall, basalt feels:
* Solid and substantial
* Cool and rough
* Heavy for its size
You can get a better sense of the feel of basalt by touching a piece yourself. If you can't find a piece of basalt, you can try touching a piece of similar igneous rock, like granite.
