mineral

Amber-colored chalcedony or common agate

Microcrystalline quartz (SiO₂), likely iron-stained chalcedony; exact identification requires testing

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Translucent honey-brown to orange, waxy-to-glassy luster, no visible crystal faces, and conchoidal fracture; hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs, with no cleavage and specific gravity near 2.6.

Identified August 28, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Amber-colored chalcedony or common agate
Scientific name: Microcrystalline quartz (SiO₂), likely iron-stained chalcedony; exact identification requires testing
Category: mineral
Identified: August 28, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $1–$10 for a small common rough fragment; $10–$50 if unusually translucent, patterned, or suitable for cutting.

Not an official valuation

AI estimate for general interest only — not an appraisal. Actual value depends on condition, provenance, and market demand. Verify with a professional before buying, selling, or insuring.

This identification was generated by AI and may contain errors. Verify important details before relying on them — and never use an AI result to judge whether a specimen is safe to handle. Read the full disclaimer

Physical properties

Translucent honey-brown to orange, waxy-to-glassy luster, no visible crystal faces, and conchoidal fracture; hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs, with no cleavage and specific gravity near 2.6.

Formation & geological history

Forms when silica-rich groundwater fills cavities or fractures in volcanic rock, later developing iron coloration; commonly Cenozoic to older, depending on host rocks.

Uses & applications

Used for cabochons, beads, carvings, and decorative specimens; small rough pieces generally have modest value.

Geological facts

Its translucent appearance and curved fracture surfaces are characteristic of chalcedony rather than amber, though a gemological test is needed to distinguish similar materials.

Field identification & locations

Common in volcanic terrains worldwide, including Brazil, Uruguay, Mexico, the western United States, and Australia. Scratch testing, specific gravity, and refractive index can separate it from amber, glass, or resin.