Pele’s Hair is a geological curiosity, appearing as delicate, hair-like strands scattered across volcanic landscapes. This material is a byproduct of volcanic activity, specifically representing thin fibers of volcanic glass. It forms during eruptions that involve highly fluid lava, which is rapidly stretched and cooled by the surrounding environment.
Physical Description and Chemical Makeup
The appearance of Pele’s Hair closely resembles fine human hair or wispy spun glass, often exhibiting a distinctive golden or yellowish-brown color. Chemically, this material is classified as an amorphous basaltic volcanic glass, meaning it lacks the crystalline structure of typical rock formations. The original molten material is low in silica, which allows it to remain highly fluid, a necessary condition for its formation.
The strands are incredibly thin, with diameters ranging from 1 micrometer up to 300 micrometers, comparable to the finest spider silk or a coarse human hair. While most fibers are only a few centimeters long, the most extensive strands have been recorded to reach lengths of up to two meters. Despite their delicate appearance when intact, the fibers are extremely brittle, easily snapping into sharp, tiny fragments when handled.
The Unique Process of Formation
Pele’s Hair is created through geological mechanics that rely on the explosive ejection of molten rock. The process begins when highly fluid, low-viscosity basaltic lava is launched into the air, typically from vigorous lava fountains or turbulent lava lakes. This airborne ejection is fueled by the rapid expansion of gas bubbles within the magma, which burst and propel droplets of liquid rock outward.
As these molten droplets fly through the air, the force of the eruption, combined with strong external winds, acts to stretch and pull the liquid material. This action is similar to how a glass blower pulls molten glass into fine threads or how warm taffy is stretched into strands. The low viscosity of the basalt allows the droplets to be drawn out into long, continuous filaments before they can fully separate.
The final step involves the rapid quenching of the stretched liquid rock by the cooler air outside the vent. This rapid cooling prevents the atoms within the lava from arranging themselves into a crystalline structure, resulting in the formation of glass instead of rock. The resulting fibers are lightweight and can be carried by prevailing winds for many kilometers away from the eruption site. The presence of this material indicates to geologists that the eruption involved the least viscous type of lava and significant fountaining activity.
Geographical Presence and Mythological Origin
Pele’s Hair is most famously associated with the volcanoes of Hawaiʻi, particularly Kīlauea and Mauna Loa. While it is an internationally recognized geological term, its name is a direct reference to Hawaiian mythology. The phenomenon is named after Pele, the revered Hawaiian Goddess of Fire, Lightning, Wind, and Volcanoes.
In the local culture, Pele is a powerful deity believed to reside in the Halemaʻumaʻu crater at the summit of Kīlauea. The golden, thread-like fibers are considered physical evidence of her presence and are described as the actual hair of the goddess. Similar volcanic glass fibers are found in other basaltic eruption zones around the world, such as Mount Etna in Italy and Erta Ale in Ethiopia. In Iceland, a similar material is known by the name nornahár, which translates to “witches’ hair.”
Health Risks and Safety Precautions
Despite its delicate appearance, Pele’s Hair poses specific physical hazards due to its composition as fine volcanic glass. The strands are highly abrasive and can easily break into tiny, sharp fragments that are difficult to see. These microscopic shards can irritate the skin and eyes upon contact, similar to fiberglass splinters.
The greatest concern involves respiratory health, as the fibers can become airborne and be inhaled. While most strands are too large to reach deep into the lungs, smaller, broken pieces can enter the upper airways, causing throat and nose irritation. For anyone encountering a fallout of Pele’s Hair, the best precaution is to limit exposure and avoid touching the material. If cleanup is necessary, protective measures should include wearing a well-fitting N95 mask, eye protection, and gloves to prevent physical irritation.