Know all about Variolite and Basanite properties here. All properties of rocks are important as they define the type of rock and its application. Variolite and Basanite belong to Igneous Rocks.Texture of Variolite is Glassy, Massive, Porphyritic, Scoriaceous, Vesicular whereas that of Basanite is Aphanitic to Porphyritic. Variolite appears Dull and Soft and Basanite appears Glassy or Pearly. The luster of Variolite is not available while that of Basanite is waxy and dull. Variolite is available in black, brown, light to dark grey colors whereas Basanite is available in black, brown, green, grey, red, white colors. The commercial uses of Variolite are cemetery markers, creating artwork and that of Basanite are as a touchstone, creating artwork, gemstone, in fire-starting tools, manufacture of tools, metallurgical flux, jewelry, to ignite fire, used in flintlock firearms.