gemstone

Green agate (polished bead)

Chalcedony, microcrystalline quartz (SiO₂)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Opaque to translucent dark-green, polished, waxy-to-glassy luster; Mohs hardness 6.5–7; trigonal quartz structure, no visible cleavage, conchoidal fracture. The small bead may be dyed; its appearance alone cannot confirm natural green color.

Identified October 3, 2026More gemstone →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Agate forms as silica-rich fluids fill cavities in volcanic rocks and deposit chalcedony in layers, commonly during later fluid circulation. Deposits occur from many geological ages, especially in basaltic regions.

Uses & applications

Used for beads, jewelry, carvings, and ornamental objects; agate is also used for small precision components and specimen collecting.

Geological facts

Agate is a variety of chalcedony, and its banding can reveal successive episodes of mineral deposition; this bead has no clear banding visible.

Field identification & locations

Common sources include Brazil, Uruguay, India, and the United States. A hardness test and close inspection for banding can help distinguish agate from glass or dyed stone; drilled, polished beads are difficult to identify conclusively from a photo.