mineral
Dyed Blue Agate
Chalcedony (Silicon Dioxide / SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs scale), Color: Cobalt blue (artificially dyed), Luster: Vitreous to waxy, Structure: Cryptocrystalline, Fracture: Conchoidal
- Hardness
- 6
Identified More mineral →
Explore Dyed Blue Agate in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs scale), Color: Cobalt blue (artificially dyed), Luster: Vitreous to waxy, Structure: Cryptocrystalline, Fracture: Conchoidal
Formation & geological history
Formed as secondary deposits of silica in cavities of volcanic rocks. This specimen has been sliced and chemically dyed with cobalt(II) nitrate before being baked to achieve the deep blue color.
Uses & applications
Ornamental use, gemstone jewelry, crystal healing, and as home decor (coasters, bookends).
Geological facts
Natural agate is rarely this vibrant shade of blue; most bright blue agates found in shops are dyed. The process of dyeing agate has been practiced for over 2,000 years, originating in ancient Rome.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its characteristic banding patterns and translucency. While natural flint/chert is found in the user's region (SE Ireland), this specific vibrant cobalt specimen is an imported, processed item. Look for dye concentration in cracks.
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Calcite–fluorite mineral specimen with iron-oxide staining
Calcite (CaCO₃), likely fluorite (CaF₂), with possible quartz and iron/manganese oxides
mineral
Mineral Sand (Heavy Mineral Sand Concentrate)
Placer deposit concentrate containing minerals such as ilmenite, rutile, zircon, and magnetite
mineral
Septarian Pebble
Septarian nodule / Concretion
sedimentary
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic