Mineral
Moss Agate
Silicon dioxide (SiO2) with inclusions
Hardness: 6.5-7. Color: Clear or milky white base with green, branching inclusions. Luster: Vitreous. Crystal structure: Cryptocrystalline. Cleavage: None. Specific gravity: 2.58-2.64.
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Clear or milky white base with green, branching inclusions
- Luster
- Vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5-7. Color: Clear or milky white base with green, branching inclusions. Luster: Vitreous. Crystal structure: Cryptocrystalline. Cleavage: None. Specific gravity: 2.58-2.64.
Formation & geological history
Formed from silica-rich fluids filling cavities in volcanic rocks. The distinctive moss-like patterns are due to mineral impurities, typically manganese or iron oxides.
Uses & applications
Commonly used in jewelry, lapidary arts, and ornamental carvings. Also popular among collectors and crystal enthusiasts.
Geological facts
Despite its name, moss agate does not contain organic matter and is technically a chalcedony rather than a true banded agate.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinctive green, moss-like or dendritic inclusions within a translucent to milky white background. Common locations include India, Brazil, Uruguay, and the USA.
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Mineral/Rock
Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)
Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)
Metamorphic Rock
![Green Apatite on Albite (Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]) — mineral](https://media.rockidentification.com/2391a63f-fb20-47d5-af9a-2035851eb32e-thumbnail.jpg)
Green Apatite on Albite
Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]
mineral