mineral

Chalcedony (likely carnelian/agate beads or rounded grains)

Microcrystalline quartz, SiO₂; chalcedony varieties

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Small, rounded, translucent to opaque cream, peach, orange, and brown silica-rich grains with a waxy to vitreous luster. Quartz hardness is about 7 Mohs; crystal structure is cryptocrystalline, so cleavage is absent and fracture is commonly conchoidal.…

Identified October 2, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Chalcedony forms when silica precipitates from fluids, often filling cavities and fractures in volcanic rocks or cementing sediment. No age can be determined from the photograph.

Uses & applications

Used for beads, ornamental objects, carvings, and as a silica source; attractive translucent pieces may be used in jewelry.

Geological facts

The hand-held, nearly spherical shapes and mixed sizes could indicate collected rounded grains or manufactured beads; appearance alone cannot establish origin.

Field identification & locations

Chalcedony is found worldwide, including in volcanic settings and alluvial deposits. Near 9.1°N, 7.4°E in Nigeria, regional geology makes quartz/chalcedony plausible, but the photo does not support a precise locality identification.