sedimentary
Dyed Blue Agate Slice
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) - Microcrystalline Quartz
Hardness: 6.5-7 Mohs; Color: Teal/Electric Blue (dyed); Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Structure: Cryptocrystalline/Trigonal; Translucent with faint banding.
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Teal/Electric Blue (dyed)
- Luster
- Vitreous to waxy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5-7 Mohs; Color: Teal/Electric Blue (dyed); Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Structure: Cryptocrystalline/Trigonal; Translucent with faint banding.
Formation & geological history
Formed in volcanic rock cavities or ancient sedimentary layers via silica deposition. The intense blue color is a result of post-extraction chemical dyeing, as this vibrant teal is not natural for agate.
Uses & applications
Primarily used for decorative ornaments, jewelry (pendants, coasters), and metaphysical specimens.
Geological facts
Agate is porous, which allows it to soak up pigments easily when heated and soaked in chemical solutions. This specimen shows a darker outer rind where the dye concentrated.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its waxy luster, translucency, and the presence of parallel banding visible when held to light. Fragments like this are often shards of a broken coaster or decorative ornament.
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