mineral

Banded agate (likely carnelian/chalcedony)

Microcrystalline quartz, SiO₂; iron-stained chalcedony

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Translucent orange-brown to reddish material with waxy/glassy luster and irregular pale banding. Quartz hardness is about 7 Mohs; no obvious cleavage, conchoidal fracture, and specific gravity near 2.6.

Identified August 10, 2026More mineral →

Explore Banded agate (likely carnelian/chalcedony) 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

Forms when silica-rich groundwater fills cavities in volcanic rocks, depositing successive layers of chalcedony and quartz; iron creates the red-orange color. Agates commonly formed during the Cenozoic, though their exact age requires locality data.

Uses & applications

Used for cabochons, beads, carvings, polished slices, and ornamental objects; rough pieces are inexpensive collector specimens.

Geological facts

The specimen’s translucent layered appearance strongly supports agate or carnelian rather than ordinary sandstone. Color may deepen when wet or polished.

Field identification & locations

Identify by translucency, curved/concentric banding, waxy surface, and inability to scratch it with a steel knife; quartz should scratch glass. Around 47.6°N, 19.3°E, volcanic-derived agate is plausible but not diagnostic without matrix or locality information.