The Water Like Lava Which Hasn’t Erupted for 90 Million Years; Komatiite

Approximately 90 million years ago, a shield volcano erupted an unusual type of lava which flowed like water and quickly travelled downhill at speeds exceeding 60 miles or 100 kilometers per hour. This rare lava, referred to as Komatiite, formed very thin layers of material much like a dusting of snow. The eruption marked the first time in more than 2 billion years that it had erupted as the earth’s mantle used to be warmer. Today, komatiite lavas are associated with large gold and nickel deposits. If you would like to support this channel, consider becoming a patron at Another way to support this channel is to make an order via our gemstone and geology related etsy store at . This channel’s merch store is also on etsy at . Graphics of eruption dates are courtesy of the Global Volcanism Program, Smithsonian Institute. Thumbnail Photo Credit: USGS, Hawaii