Hot lava is the molten rock expelled by a volcano during an eruption. It can reach temperatures of 2,120°F (1,165°C) and speeds up to 656 mph (400 km/h). Many people wonder if it is possible to obtain samples of lava for free since it comes directly from the Earth. However, there are risks and legalities to consider when collecting lava specimens.
Can you take lava from volcanoes legally?
In most cases, it is illegal to take lava from active volcanoes. Lava rocks and formations belong to the jurisdiction in which the volcano resides. For example, lava from the Kilauea volcano in Hawaii belongs to the state of Hawaii. The National Park Service oversees these lands and does not allow the removal of natural features like lava rocks.
Some key facts about the legality of collecting lava:
- National parks like Hawaii Volcanoes National Park prohibit the defacing or removal of lava rocks and lava samples.
- Laws like the Lacey Act make it a federal offense to remove natural objects from protected lands.
- Fines for lava rock theft can be upwards of $5,000 depending on the commercial value.
- Lava rocks that end up on beaches from ocean entries may be legal to take in small quantities. But it depends on local laws.
Unless you have explicit permission from the landowner, taking lava from volcanoes is usually considered theft and destruction of natural resources. The fines and legal punishments make it risky and not worth the lava sample.
Dangers of getting too close to lava
Attempting to get close enough to active lava flows to collect samples is extremely dangerous. Some hazards include:
- Burns – Lava can heat the surrounding air over 2,000°F. Getting too close will cause severe burns.
- Toxic fumes – Lava releases toxic sulfur dioxide gas and volcanic smog (vog). These can scorch lungs and be fatal if inhaled in large quantities.
- Explosions – Lava can interact violently with external water and ice to cause powerful explosions sending rocks flying at high speed.
- Collapsing terrain – New lava is not stable. The ground can give way causing people to fall into the lava flow.
- Fast moving lava – Lava flows can travel up to 40 mph. It is impossible to outrun lava if it heads your direction.
Collecting lava requires approaching active lava flows closely. This puts people at serious risk of death or injury from burns, explosions, fumes, and collapsing terrain. It is never safe to approach lava flows without proper protective equipment and training.
Where you might legally be able to collect lava
While it is usually illegal and dangerous to take lava from active volcanoes, there are a few instances where it may be possible to legally collect lava:
- Beaches or coastlines where lava enters the ocean. Small quantities of lava rocks that have cooled in the ocean may be legal to take depending on local laws.
- Private land not under government protection. If a lava flow occurs on private land, the landowner determines legality.
- Purchased from legal vendors. Some vendors have permits to collect and sell certain lava rocks and samples legally.
- Educational or scientific institutions. With the proper permits, researchers can collect limited lava samples for research.
However, these situations represent only a tiny fraction of lava sources. The vast majority of lava is illegal to take from volcanoes. Always check local laws and jurisdiction to assess the legality before attempting to collect lava.
Ethical considerations of collecting lava
Aside from legal restrictions, there are ethical reasons to avoid removing lava from natural settings:
- Environmental impact – Taking lava removes part of the geological record and can disturb delicate volcanic features.
- Cultural significance – Many cultures attach spiritual and ancestral heritage to lava formations.
- Scientific value – Lava provides insights into volcanology. Scientists argue only trained researchers should handle samples.
- Precedent – Allowing the removal of lava sets a precedent that leads to depletion of limited natural resources.
When lava is removed, the ecosystem and knowledge that it holds are also lost. Lava formations have far more value when left to benefit the natural landscape and future generations. These ethical considerations provide added reasons not to remove lava from volcanoes or lava fields.
Purchasing lava souvenirs and samples
To legally and ethically obtain lava, one of the only options is to purchase lava products from authorized vendors. Many gift shops and online retailers sell the following types of lava products:
- Lava rocks – Ranging from pebbles to baseball-sized lava stones.
- Lava jewelry – Necklaces, rings, bracelets made with lava beads.
- Lava sculptures – Figurines and artwork molded from lava.
- Lava sand – Fine particulate lava used in landscaping or cosmetics.
- Lava salt – Coarse lava salt used for cooking.
When shopping for lava products, look for retailers that work directly with local artisans and have permits to legally source and sell lava materials. This ensures the products support local communities and do not damage environments.
Some authorized lava vendors include:
| Vendor | Location | Products |
|---|---|---|
| Lava Roots | Hawaii | Jewelry, décor, ornaments |
| The Lava Store | Iceland | Jewelry, lamps, sculptures |
| Idili | Italy | Jewelry, sculptures |
By purchasing lava goods from reputable businesses, you can obtain a legal lava specimen while supporting local artisans and protecting natural environments.
Conclusion
While mesmerizing to witness, lava from active volcanoes does not come free. Strict laws and safety risks make it illegal and dangerous to take lava directly from volcanic eruptions. However, it is sometimes possible to legally collect lava along coasts if local laws permit. Purchasing lava products from authorized vendors offers the safest and most ethical way to obtain lava souvenirs and samples.
Lava provides invaluable benefits to ecosystems and scientific studies when left in its natural setting. The prudent choice is to appreciate lava formations where they occur, through safe volcano tourism or museums. Removing lava should be avoided except in exceptional circumstances with proper permits. This preserves lava’s natural wonder and cultural heritage for all.
