mineral

Dendritic Agate

Dendritic Agate (Silicon Dioxide with Manganese or Iron Oxide inclusions, SiO2)

Hardness: 6.5–7 on the Mohs scale. Color: Translucent to opaque white or gray base with black or brown tree-like patterns. Luster: Vitreous to waxy. Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal) microcrystalline. Features typical conchoidal fracture.

Hardness: 6
Luster: Vitreous to waxy

Identified April 19, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed when mineral-rich water (containing manganese or iron) seeps into cracks in chalcedony or volcanic rock, where it crystallizes into branch-like patterns. Often found in volcanic geodes or sedimentary deposits.

Uses & applications

Primarily used in jewelry (as cabochons), lapidary arts, and as a collector's specimen. It is also well-known in metaphysical circles as the 'Stone of Plentitude'.

Geological facts

Despite the name, 'dendritic agate' is not technically a true agate because it lacks the concentric banding of true agates. The name comes from the Greek word 'dendron', meaning tree, referring to its plant-like inclusions.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by the translucent milky appearance paired with distinctive branch-like or moss-like inclusions that do not look like solid veins. Common locations include Brazil, India, Madagascar, and the USA (Montana/Washington).

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