mineral

Agate (Sliced and Carved)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) - Banded Chalcedony

Hardness: 6.5-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Semi-translucent light grey, white, cream with orbicular or eyes/tubes pattern; Luster: Waxy to vitreous; Crystal Structure: Trigonal (microcrystalline/cryptocrystalline quartz); Cleavage: None, conchoidal fracture.

Hardness: 6
Luster: Waxy to vitreous

Identified July 24, 2026More mineral →

Explore Agate (Sliced and Carved) in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed primarily in cavities within volcanic host rocks as silica-rich fluid precipitates layer by layer over millions of years. This piece has been cut, carved, and polished into a decorative slab shape.

Uses & applications

Used primarily for lapidary art, decorative displays, jewelry, coasters, and mineral collections.

Geological facts

Agate is a variety of chalcedony characterized by fine grain and brightness of color. Small tube or 'eye' formations seen here occur when mineral-rich solutions deposit around needle-like inclusions or bubbles inside the cavity.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its microcrystalline translucency, waxy luster, hardness (will scratch glass), and fine concentric or orbicular banding. Commonly found in Brazil, Uruguay, USA (Oregon, Lake Superior region), and Madagascar.

Other mineral specimens

See all

Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Schist

Metamorphic

Sandstone with Mineral Veining or Crust

Sedimentary Sandstone (mostly SiO2 with Fe2O3 tinting)

sedimentary

Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)

Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8)

mineral

Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)

Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)

Mineral

Nephrite Jade

Nephrite

Mineral/Rock