My new fire pit came with some lava rocks. They’re supposed to help diffuse the heat. The flames would be a very transitory heat if not for the rocks, which absorb heat and then release it slowly.
I wanted more, so I ordered some along with the fire pit. They arrived on Thursday. They are tumbled, so they have smooth sides, like river rocks. They’re also a little heavier than the other rocks. Last night, I tried them out.

They work. After I turned the flames off, they were still hot, and glowing red.

Huh I never thought about the rocks having a practical function. That’s pretty cool! I would imagine that lighting the fire when the rocks are wet/damp would be…. bad?