sedimentary
Dyed Agate
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) - Chalcedony variety
Hardness: 6.5-7 Mohs; Color: Greyish-white base with artificial neon pink dye; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Structure: Microcrystalline; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.58-2.64
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Greyish-white base with artificial neon pink dye
- Luster
- Vitreous to waxy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5-7 Mohs; Color: Greyish-white base with artificial neon pink dye; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Structure: Microcrystalline; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.58-2.64
Formation & geological history
Formed in cavities of volcanic rocks or ancient lavas, often as nodules or geodes. The artificial pink color is achieved through a chemical dyeing process after the stone is tumbled.
Uses & applications
Ornamental use, decorative stones, tumbled 'pocket' stones, and inexpensive jewelry.
Geological facts
Agate is naturally porous, which allows it to absorb mineral salts and chemical dyes easily. The pink color seen here does not occur naturally in this shade or distribution in agate/chalcedony.
Field identification & locations
Identify by looking for concentrations of color in cracks (dye pooling) or neon hues not found in nature. Commonly found in Brazil and Uruguay before being processed and dyed.
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