mineral

Banded Agate (Tumbled)

Agate (Variety of Chalcedony/Quartz), SiO2

Hardness: 6.5-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Multi-colored bands (brown, white, grey); Luster: Waxy to vitreous; Crystal Structure: Trigonal (cryptocrystalline); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.58–2.64.

Hardness: 6
Color: Multi-colored bands (brown, white, grey)
Luster: Waxy to vitreous

Identified March 25, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in cavities of volcanic rock (basalt) or ancient sedimentary formations where silica-rich groundwater deposits layers of microscopically crystalline quartz over thousands of years.

Uses & applications

Commonly used in jewelry (cabochons, beads), decorative lapidary arts, metaphysical collections, and historically for precision mechanical parts like bearing pivots.

Geological facts

Agate is named after the Achates River in Sicily where it was first discovered by the Greek philosopher Theophrastus around the 4th century BC.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by Its translucent nature and distinct concentric or parallel banding when broken or polished. Found globally in volcanic regions like Brazil, India, and the Lake Superior region of the USA.

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