sedimentary
Blue Lace Agate
Cryptocrystalline Quartz (SiO2) with trace minerals
Hardness: 6.5-7 Mohs; Color: Pale blue with white or darker blue banding; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal (microcrystalline); Specific Gravity: 2.60 to 2.64.
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Pale blue with white or darker blue banding
- Luster
- Vitreous to waxy
Identified More sedimentary →
Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5-7 Mohs; Color: Pale blue with white or darker blue banding; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal (microcrystalline); Specific Gravity: 2.60 to 2.64.
Formation & geological history
Formed primarily within volcanic rock cavities (vugs) through the deposition of silica from groundwater. The distinct banding is caused by successive layers of silica-rich fluids over geological time periods.
Uses & applications
Used extensively in the jewelry industry for beads, cabochons, and carvings. Also popular as a collector mineral and in metaphysical practices for its calming aesthetic.
Geological facts
Blue Lace Agate was first discovered in Namibia, which remains the source for the world's highest quality material. Unlike color-enhanced agates, its blue hue is natural and stable.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its characteristic delicate, wavy blue and white bands. In the field, look for chalcedony nodules in volcanic host rocks. Avoid pieces that look too uniformly bright blue as they may be dyed.
More like this
Other sedimentary specimens
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite (primarily SiO2)
sedimentary
Shale or Slaty Mudstone
Argillaceous sedimentary rock
sedimentary
Chert Breccia
Brecciated Chert (Microcrystalline Silica)
sedimentary
Sandstone (Quartz-rich)
Arenite (SiO2)
sedimentary
Sandstone (with man-made markings)
Arenite (composed primarily of Quartz, SiO2)
sedimentary