mineral
Blue Dyed Agate
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with artificial pigment
Hardness: 6.5-7 Mohs; Color: Translucent blue (vibrant/unnatural) and grey; Luster: Vitreous/Waxy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal (Cryptocrystalline); Conchoidal fracture.
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Translucent blue (vibrant/unnatural) and grey
- Luster
- Vitreous/Waxy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5-7 Mohs; Color: Translucent blue (vibrant/unnatural) and grey; Luster: Vitreous/Waxy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal (Cryptocrystalline); Conchoidal fracture.
Formation & geological history
Agates form in volcanic rock cavities or ancient sedimentary layers through the deposition of silica from groundwater. This specific specimen has undergone a tumble-polishing process and a chemical dye bath to achieve the electric blue hue.
Uses & applications
Used primarily for ornamental purposes, pocket stones, decorative home accents, and inexpensive jewelry like wire-wrapped pendants.
Geological facts
Naturally occurring blue agate (like Blue Lace Agate) is typically much paler and banded; vibrant neon blues in agate are almost always the result of the stone's porous nature absorbing dyes. Dyes have been used on agate since the time of the Romans.
Field identification & locations
Identify by looking for concentrations of color in cracks or circular bands. This specimen shows typical 'tumbled' smooth edges. It is common in gift shops and crystal starter sets.
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