mineral

Grey Banded Agate

Chalcedony (Silicon Dioxide, SiO2)

Hardness: 6.5-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Grey, blue-grey, white; Luster: Waxy to vitreous; Crystal Structure: Trigonal (microcrystalline); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.58-2.64

Hardness: 6
Color: Grey, blue-grey, white
Luster: Waxy to vitreous

Identified May 7, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6.5-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Grey, blue-grey, white; Luster: Waxy to vitreous; Crystal Structure: Trigonal (microcrystalline); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.58-2.64

Formation & geological history

Formed primarily within volcanic and metamorphic rocks through the deposition of silica from groundwater into cavities (vugs). Most specimens range from thousands to millions of years old.

Uses & applications

Used extensively in jewelry (beads, cabochons), decorative carvings, paperweights, and as metaphysical healing stones.

Geological facts

Agate was named by Theophrastus, a Greek philosopher, who discovered the stone along the shore line of the Dirillo River in Sicily. Each agate is unique because of its banding patterns created over geological timescales.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its distinctive concentric or wavy banding and translucent appearance. Frequently found in riverbeds or near ancient volcanic sites in regions like Brazil, India, and the United States.