mineral

Dendritic Agate or Tree Agate

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with impurities of manganese or iron oxide

Hardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs scale), Color: White, cream, or gray with black to greenish branch-like inclusions, Luster: Vitreous to waxy, Crystal Structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal (Cryptocrystalline), Cleavage: None

Hardness: 6

Identified April 6, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through the infiltration of manganese or iron oxides into cracks in white quartz or agate during the cooling process, often in volcanic or sedimentary environments.

Uses & applications

Primarily used in jewelry (cabochons, beads), decorative carvings, and as a popular collector's stone or metaphysical 'stone of plenitude'.

Geological facts

Despite its name, it is technically an agate-like chalcedony but lacks the banding usually found in agates. The term 'dendritic' comes from the Greek word 'dendron' meaning tree.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its translucent to opaque white body with black fern-like patterns. Common locations include Brazil, India, Madagascar, and parts of the USA (Montana, Oregon).

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