mineral

Dyed Agate

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) - variety Chalcedony

Hardness: 6.5–7 on Mohs scale; Color: Intense fuchsia or magenta (due to synthetic dye); Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal structure: Hexagonal (cryptocrystalline); Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 2.58–2.64

Hardness: 6
Color: Intense fuchsia or magenta (due to synthetic dye)
Luster: Vitreous to waxy

Identified March 23, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed as a secondary mineral in volcanic rock cavities (vesicles) through the deposition of silica from groundwater; these specimens are often late-stage formations in basaltic lavas. The vivid pink color is achieved post-mining through chemical dye baths.

Uses & applications

Commonly used in jewelry, as tumbled pocket stones, for ornamental home decor (like coasters), and as educational specimens in beginner geology kits.

Geological facts

Natural agate is rarely this vibrant. The process of dyeing agate takes advantage of the mineral's micro-porosity, allowing colored fluids to penetrate the bands. This practice of staining chalcedony dates back to the ancient Romans.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its waxy-to-glassy luster and translucent edges; look for 'bleeding' of color into cracks or unnaturally bright hues that don't occur in nature. Common locations for the base material include Brazil, Uruguay, and India.

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