Cry me a Pele’s tear: new insights on the internal structures of Pele’s tears

In this paper we present novel observations of internal structures Pele’s tears and spheres revealed from SEM studies particles formed within Kilauean lava fountains. Partially weathered eruption episodes in 1969 include a crust, or rind, material that is smooth on the external surface. However, once crust peeled away, it reveals sub-crustal surface tear morphologically complex. This characterized by network ridges valleys warp around radial with pores at their centers. The are interpreted to represent differential cooling shrinkage relative interior upon exiting fountain chilling ambient air. be as result chemical zonation locations where vesicle contacts crust. An additional feature observed underside off each tear. has roughly polygonal tubes surround center many polygons. hollow some contain solid within, possibly remains crushed top tube can peer inside. origin puzzle remaining solved.