mineral

Botryoidal Lace Agate

Agate (Silicon Dioxide, SiO2)

Hardness: 6.5-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Cream, tan, grey, and pink; Luster: Waxy to vitreous; Structure: Microcrystalline (trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Botryoidal (grape-like) surface texture.

Hardness: 6
Color: Cream, tan, grey, and pink
Luster: Waxy to vitreous

Identified May 30, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in cavities within volcanic or sedimentary rocks through the deposition of silica from groundwater. The layers represent different stages of mineral deposition over thousands of years.

Uses & applications

Commonly used in lapidary work for making cabochons, carvings, and bookends. It is highly valued as a decorative specimen for crystal healing and mineral collecting.

Geological facts

The term 'botryoidal' comes from the Greek word 'botrys', meaning a bunch of grapes. Agate with this texture is often found as the inner lining of geodes or as seam filling.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its distinct colorful banding and waxy appearance on broken surfaces. Often found in riverbeds or volcanic ash deposits where silica-rich fluids were present.