sedimentary
Dendritic Agate
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Manganese/Iron Oxide inclusions
Hardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs). Color: Translucent tan or yellow-gold with black/brown dendritic (tree-like) inclusions. Luster: Vitreous to waxy. Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Microcrystalline. Specific Gravity: 2.6.
- Hardness
- 6
- Luster
- Vitreous to waxy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs). Color: Translucent tan or yellow-gold with black/brown dendritic (tree-like) inclusions. Luster: Vitreous to waxy. Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Microcrystalline. Specific Gravity: 2.6.
Formation & geological history
Formed as silica-rich water fills cavities in volcanic or sedimentary rocks. The dendritic patterns are formed as manganese or iron oxides crystallize in a branching fashion between layers of chalcedony.
Uses & applications
Mainly used as a gemstone in jewelry, for lapidary work, and for metaphysical or collection purposes.
Geological facts
Although it looks like organic plant matter, the dark plumes are actually inorganic mineral deposits. It was a favorite of the famous jeweler Carl Faberg .
Field identification & locations
Can be identified by the characteristic 'branching' or moss-like inclusions inside translucent chalcedony. Commonly found in Brazil, India, Madagascar, and the USA.
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