Mineral (Variety of Chalcedony/Quartz)
Blue Lace Agate
Silicon Dioxide (SiO₂)
Hardness: 6.5-7 on Mohs scale. Color: Light blue with white or darker blue banding. Luster: Vitreous to waxy. Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (cryptocrystalline). Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific Gravity: 2.58–2.64.
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Light blue with white or darker blue banding
- Luster
- Vitreous to waxy
Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5-7 on Mohs scale. Color: Light blue with white or darker blue banding. Luster: Vitreous to waxy. Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (cryptocrystalline). Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific Gravity: 2.58–2.64.
Formation & geological history
Formed in volcanic rock cavities (vugs) through the deposition of silica from groundwater. The blue color is often attributed to the scattering of light by microscopic inclusions. Most significant deposits are associated with Precambrian formations, though the agate itself forms much later in volcanic vents.
Uses & applications
Primarily used in jewelry (cabochons, beads), decorative carvings, and as a popular specimen for crystal collecting and metaphysical practices.
Geological facts
First discovered in Namibia in the early 1960s by George Swanson. It is considered a rare variety of agate because original high-quality deposits in Namibia are becoming depleted.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its distinct concentric or wavy banding of sky blue and white. It is commonly found in Namibia, South Africa, and occasionally Brazil. Collectors should look for translucency and the absence of 'dye' lines, which are common in fakes.
More like this
Other mineral (variety of chalcedony/quartz) specimens
Red Jasper
Silicon Dioxide with Iron Oxide impurities (SiO2 + Fe2O3)
Mineral (variety of Chalcedony/Quartz)
Red Jasper
Silicon Dioxide with Iron Oxide inclusions (SiO2 + Fe2O3)
Mineral (variety of Chalcedony/Quartz)
Banded Agate (specifically Botryoidal/Orbicular Agate)
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Mineral (variety of Chalcedony/Quartz)
Chrysoprase
Silicon dioxide with nickel impurities (SiO2 + Ni)
mineral
Brecciated Jasper
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Hematite impurities
sedimentary
Banded Calcite (often sold as 'Mexican Onyx')
Calcite (Calcium Carbonate, CaCO3)
Mineral / Sedimentary Rock