Pele's hair

For the plant nicknamed "Pele's hair", see Spanish moss.

Pele's hair caught on a radio antenna mounted on the south rim of Puʻu ʻŌʻō, Hawaiʻi, July 22, 2005

Pele's hair on a pahoehoe flow at Kīlauea Volcano, Hawaiʻi, March 27, 1984

Well preserved after 1959 eruption of Kīlauea Iki Pele's hair

Pele's hair ( /ˈpeɪleɪz ˈhɛər/) is a geological term for volcanic glass threads or fibers formed when small particles of molten material are thrown into the air and spun out by the wind into long hair-like strands. The diameter of the strands is less than 0.5 mm, and they can be as long as 2 meters. Pele’s hair is deep yellow or gold and commonly found downwind from active vents. Pele's hair is primarily a scientific term used by volcanologists.

Pele's hair is named after Pele, the Hawaiian goddess of volcanoes.

See also

• Limu o Pele
• Pele's tears

External links

• USGS Photo Glossary: Pele's hair