mineral

Banded Agate (specifically Carnelian Agate)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) - Chalcedony variety

Hardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs scale); Color: Orange, reddish-brown, white banding; Luster: Waxy to vitreous; Crystal Structure: Trigonal (cryptocrystalline); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.58-2.64

Hardness: 6
Color: Orange, reddish-brown, white banding
Luster: Waxy to vitreous

Identified June 8, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in volcanic cavities or sedimentary rocks through the deposition of silica from groundwater. The distinct banding occurs as different layers of silica are deposited into gas bubbles (vesicles) in cooling lava over thousands of years.

Uses & applications

Commonly used in jewelry (beads, cabochons), lapidary art, decorative carvings, and as a collector's stone. It is also historically used for seals and amulets.

Geological facts

The word 'agate' comes from the Achates River in Sicily. Agates are unique because no two stones are exactly alike due to the chaotic nature of mineral deposition in rock cavities.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by looking for translucent stones with concentric banding or 'rings.' It is commonly found in riverbeds, gravel deposits, and volcanic areas in Brazil, India, and the United States (Lake Superior region).

Other mineral specimens

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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Schist

Metamorphic

Epidote

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metamorphic

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