Mineral variant

Tree Agate

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Chlorite inclusions

Hardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs scale), Color: White base with green branch-like inclusions, Luster: Vitreous to waxy, Crystal structure: Trigonal/Microcrystalline, Cleavage: None (Conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.58-2.64

Hardness: 6

Identified March 24, 2026More mineral variant →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through volcanic activity where silica-rich groundwater fills cavities in igneous rocks. The dendritic green patterns are caused by chlorite or manganese inclusions during the cooling process over millions of years.

Uses & applications

Commonly used in jewelry making (beads, cabochons), lapidary art, tumble stones, and is a popular specimen for crystal collectors and decorative indoor gardening.

Geological facts

Despite the name, tree agate is not technically an agate because it lacks the concentric banding of true agates; it is scientifically a dendritic chalcedony. It has been used since ancient times as a 'stone of plenitude.'

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its distinct 'dendritic' (root-like) green patterns against a milky white opaque background. It is commonly found in India, Brazil, and parts of the United States. Collectors should look for high contrast between the white and green and a smooth waxy polish.

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Granite Pebble

Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)

igneous

Botryoidal Chalcedony (Desert Rose / Agate)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO₂)

Mineral variant

Yellow Aventurine (Yellow Quartz)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with inclusions of Muscovite or Mica

Mineral (variant of Quartz)

Desert Rose

Gypsum (CaSO4·2H2O) or Barite (BaSO4) inclusions in sand

mineral

Carnelian

Carnelian (SiO2 variant)

mineral

Amazonite

K(AlSi3O8) - Microcline variant

mineral