
mineral
Blue Chalcedony
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 6.5–7; Color: Translucent grayish-blue to light lavender; Luster: Waxy to vitreous; Crystal Structure: Trigonal (microcrystalline); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.58–2.64
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Translucent grayish-blue to light lavender
- Luster
- Waxy to vitreous
Identified More mineral →
Explore Blue Chalcedony in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5–7; Color: Translucent grayish-blue to light lavender; Luster: Waxy to vitreous; Crystal Structure: Trigonal (microcrystalline); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.58–2.64
Formation & geological history
Formed through the deposition of silica-rich water in volcanic cavities or sedimentary layers at relatively low temperatures. It often occurs as a primary precipitate in late-stage hydrothermal environments.
Uses & applications
Predominantly used as a gemstone for jewelry (cabochons and beads), ornamental carvings, and by mineral collectors for its soothing aesthetic.
Geological facts
Chalcedony is a cryptocrystalline form of silica, meaning its crystals are so small they can only be seen under extreme magnification. Blue chalcedony is often linked to calming folklore and the 'throat chakra' in metaphysical circles.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its waxy luster, lack of visible crystals, and conchoidal (shell-like) fracture. Commonly found in Brazil, Turkey, Namibia, and the USA. Collectors should look for even color saturation and high translucency.
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Tumbled granite
Granite, a coarse-grained felsic intrusive igneous rock
igneous
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous