mineral

Dendritic Agate

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Manganese/Iron oxide inclusions

Hardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs scale), Color: Translucent to opaque white, cream, or yellow with dark fern-like inclusions, Luster: Waxy to vitreous, Crystal Structure: Trigonal (Microcrystalline), Cleavage: None

Hardness: 6

Identified June 21, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through the infiltration of mineral-rich groundwater into cavities in volcanic or sedimentary rocks. The dendritic tree-like patterns are manganese or iron oxide crystals that grew along cracks and planes as the silica gel hardened.

Uses & applications

Primarily used in jewelry (cabochons), ornamental carvings, stone therapy, and as a popular collector's specimen due to its unique artistic patterns.

Geological facts

Despite its name, it is technically a chalcedony rather than an agate as it lack concentric banding. The patterns are often mistaken for fossilized plants, but are actually inorganic mineral growths.

Field identification & locations

Identify by looking for plant-like, fractal patterns (dendrites) inside a translucent or milky stone that cannot be scratched by a steel nail. Common in Brazil, India, Madagascar, and the western USA.

Other mineral specimens

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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Schist

Metamorphic

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Nephrite Jade

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Mineral/Rock

Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)

Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)

Metamorphic Rock

Green Apatite on Albite

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mineral