mineral
Dyed Purple Agate Sliced
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with artificial pigment
Hardness: 6.5-7 Mohs; Color: Artificially dyed purple with banded concentric layers; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Structure: Microcrystalline quartz (chalcedony)
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Artificially dyed purple with banded concentric layers
- Luster
- Vitreous to waxy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5-7 Mohs; Color: Artificially dyed purple with banded concentric layers; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Structure: Microcrystalline quartz (chalcedony)
Formation & geological history
Formed in volcanic rock cavities or ancient hydrothermal veins where silica-rich fluids deposited layers over time. This specimen has been sliced and chemically dyed to achieve the neon purple hue.
Uses & applications
Decorative items, coasters, jewelry, and metaphysical uses (healing crystals)
Geological facts
Natural agate is rarely this vibrant purple; almost all bright pink, purple, or blue agates found in shops are dyed using metal salts and heat treatment. Agate was named after the Achates River in Sicily.
Field identification & locations
Identify by looking for concentric 'banding' layers and a translucent quality. Look for intense pigment concentrations in tiny cracks, which indicates artificial dyeing. Common in Brazil and Uruguay.
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