gemstone
Agate
Silicon Dioxide (Chalcedony), SiO2
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, waxy to vitreous luster, cryptocrystalline crystal structure, conchoidal fracture, specific gravity around 2.60 to 2.65, displays distinctive concentric banding in various colors.
Identified More gemstone →
Explore Agate in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, waxy to vitreous luster, cryptocrystalline crystal structure, conchoidal fracture, specific gravity around 2.60 to 2.65, displays distinctive concentric banding in various colors.
Formation & geological history
Formed primarily within cavities of volcanic and metamorphic rocks through the deposition of silica from groundwater solutions over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Used extensively in jewelry, ornamental carvings, decorative objects, precision instruments, and mortar and pestle sets due to its hardness and durability.
Geological facts
Agate was named by the Greek philosopher Theophrastus after the Achates river in Sicily where the stones were first found.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its characteristic layered banding patterns and translucent to opaque appearance. Commonly found worldwide, notably in Brazil, Uruguay, India, and the USA.
More like this
Other gemstone specimens
Ammolite
Ammolite (Biogenic Aragonite with trace elements; fossils of Placenticeras meeki and Placenticeras intercalare)
mineral
Gemstone Ring
N/A - Set piece of jewelry, likely Amethyst or Garnet with Diamond or CZ
gemstone
Amber
Succinite (Organic Gemstone)
mineral
Diamond and Gold Jewelry
Carbon (Diamond) / Au (Gold)
gemstone
Red Jasper
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Hematite inclusions
sedimentary
Cubic Zirconia (simulant) or Diamond
ZrO2 (Cubic Zirconia) or C (Diamond)
gemstone