mineral

Dyed Agate Geode

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with artificial pigment

Hardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs scale); Color: Neon purple/magenta (artificially dyed); Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Structure: Cryptocrystalline/Microcrystalline quartz; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.60-2.65

Hardness: 6
Color: Neon purple/magenta (artificially dyed)
Luster: Vitreous to waxy

Identified June 7, 2026More mineral →

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 volcanic rock cavities (vesicles) where silica-rich groundwater deposited layers of chalcedony over millions of years. This specific specimen has undergone a post-mining process where it was soaked in chemical dyes to achieve the vibrant purple color.

Uses & applications

Ornamental decoration, paperweights, metaphysical or healing stone collections, and educational specimens for beginner collectors.

Geological facts

The concentric banding seen in agates is a result of periodic changes in the silica concentration during formation. The intense 'neon' colors not seen in nature are a result of the stone's porosity, allowing it to absorb synthetic dyes.

Field identification & locations

Identify by the presence of banding and a druzy quartz center. In the field, look for nodules with a waxy exterior. Natural agates are common in Brazil, Uruguay, and the USA, but dyed versions like this are primarily commercial products.

Other mineral specimens

See all

Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Schist

Metamorphic

Epidote

Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)

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