sedimentary
Blue Lace Agate
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) - Chalcedony / Quartz
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 6.5-7.0 (Mohs scale); Color: Light blue with white or darker blue banding; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Microcrystalline; Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 2.58-2.64.
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Light blue with white or darker blue banding
- Luster
- Vitreous to waxy
Identified More sedimentary →
Explore Blue Lace Agate in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5-7.0 (Mohs scale); Color: Light blue with white or darker blue banding; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Microcrystalline; Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 2.58-2.64.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the deposition of silica-rich groundwater in cavities of volcanic or sedimentary rocks, often in layers over thousands of years. Usually associated with Cenozoic volcanic activity.
Uses & applications
Primarily used in jewelry (cabochons, beads), decorative carvings, and as a collector's gemstone for its aesthetic banding.
Geological facts
First discovered in Namibia by George Swanson in the 1960s. It is a variety of chalcedony characterized by its delicate, lace-like patterns and soft blue hue.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its distinct concentric or wavy banding and translucent appearance. Found commonly in Namibia, South Africa, and parts of the United States and Brazil.
More like this
Other sedimentary specimens
Fossiliferous Sedimentary Rock
Sedimentary limestone with invertebrate fossil imprint
fossil
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Quartz pebble
Silicon dioxide (SiO2)
sedimentary
Generic Pebble / Rock Fragment
Lithic fragment / Weathered rock
sedimentary
Sedimentary Sandstone
Arenite (Sedimentary Rock)
sedimentary
Shale (or Mudstone/Siltstone)
Sedimentary Mudrock (SiO2, Al2O3 base with clay minerals)
sedimentary