mineral

Dyed Agate

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with artificial colorants

Hardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs scale), Color: Vivid magenta/pink (artificial), Luster: Vitreous to waxy, Crystal structure: Trigonal/Microcrystalline, Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.58-2.64

Hardness: 6

Identified June 14, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed as a cryptocrystalline variety of silica, typically in volcanic/sedimentary cavities. The intense color is achieved through a chemical dyeing process after the stone is polished, as natural agates rarely exhibit this specific neon-pink hue.

Uses & applications

Decorative items, tumbled stones for collectors, wire-wrapped jewelry, and metaphysical/spiritual use.

Geological facts

Agate is porous, which allows it to absorb liquid dyes easily. While the stone itself is natural, the color is often enhanced to make it more commercially appealing for gift shops and hobbyists.

Field identification & locations

Identify by looking for uniform, unnaturally bright colors that may be concentrated in cracks or bands. Commonly found in rock shops and jewelry craft markets worldwide. Authentic specimens often originate from Brazil or Uruguay.

Other mineral specimens

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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Schist

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Epidote

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Nephrite Jade

Nephrite

Mineral/Rock

Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)

Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)

Metamorphic Rock

Biotite Schist

Biotite-rich Schist [K(Mg,Fe)3AlSi3O10(F,OH)2]

metamorphic