mineral

Dyed Agate Geode Slice

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) - Banded Chalcedony

Hardness: 6.5-7 on Mohs scale. Color: Natural grey and white bands with artificial purple dye. Luster: Vitreous (glassy) when polished. Crystal structure: Trigonal (microcrystalline/cryptocrystalline). Specific gravity: 2.58-2.64.

Hardness: 6
Color: Natural grey and white bands with artificial purple dye
Luster: Vitreous (glassy) when polished

Identified July 4, 2026More mineral →

Explore Dyed Agate Geode Slice in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed as nodules in volcanic rock or ancient lavas, where silica-rich groundwater deposited layers of quartz inside cavities. This specimen has been sliced, polished, and chemically dyed to enhance its color.

Uses & applications

Primarily used for decorative purposes, paperweights, jewelry (pendants/coasters), and as educational or metaphysical display pieces.

Geological facts

The intense neon-purple band is not natural; agates are porous minerals that readily absorb dyes during a boiling process. The center often contains druzy quartz crystals.

Field identification & locations

Can be identified by the concentric banding patterns and the presence of a quartz crystal center. Found globally, with massive deposits in Brazil and Uruguay. Collectors should look for vibrant, unnatural colors as a sign of treatment.

Other mineral specimens

See all

Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Schist

Metamorphic

Epidote

Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)

metamorphic

Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)

Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)

Mineral

Nephrite Jade

Nephrite

Mineral/Rock

Granite

Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)

igneous