mineral

Banded agate (likely green jasper/agate pebble)

Microcrystalline quartz, SiO₂, with iron- and chlorite-rich inclusions

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs; rounded, polished surface with muted green, gray, cream, and brown horizontal bands. Waxy to vitreous luster; cryptocrystalline quartz, with no obvious cleavage and specific gravity near 2.6.

Identified August 10, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed when silica-rich groundwater repeatedly filled cavities or fractures in volcanic rock, depositing layered chalcedony and impurities. The precise geological age and locality cannot be determined from the photograph.

Uses & applications

Used as a lapidary stone for cabochons, beads, carvings, and decorative objects; generally inexpensive as a small tumbled specimen.

Geological facts

The banding reflects changing chemistry during successive silica-deposition episodes. Its subdued green coloration may result from chlorite, epidote, or iron-bearing minerals rather than pure quartz coloration.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its very hard, fine-grained texture, curved/concentric banding, waxy luster, and resistance to scratching by steel. Common agates occur in volcanic terrains worldwide, including Brazil, Uruguay, India, Mexico, and the United States.