mineral

Blue Dyed Agate Slice

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with artificial pigment

Hardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs). Color: Natural grey/white outer bands with artificially enhanced deep blue center. Luster: Vitreous to waxy. Structure: Cryptocrystalline. Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific Gravity: 2.58-2.64.

Hardness: 6
Luster: Vitreous to waxy

Identified July 4, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed as a secondary mineral in volcanic rock cavities (amygdules) when silica-rich groundwater deposits layers of chalcedony over time. This specimen has been sliced and chemically dyed blue, a process common for Brazilian agates.

Uses & applications

Primarily used for decorative purposes, coasters, jewelry cabochons, metaphysical healing displays, and educational samples for beginning collectors.

Geological facts

Agate is a variety of chalcedony. While blue lace agate occurs naturally, the intense royal blue seen in this specimen is achieved through an inorganic dyeing process involving potassium ferricyanide and ferrous salt.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its characteristic concentric banding and waxy luster. Note that vivid, neon-like colors in agates are almost always a sign of human treatment. Common in Brazil, Uruguay, and the USA (Lake Superior region).

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