mineral

Agate (specifically Moss or Plume Agate nodding toward Agatized Wood)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) - Cryptocrystalline Quartz (Chalcedony)

Hardness: 6.5–7 (Mohs scale); Color: Translucent blue-grey core with brown/red inclusions; Luster: Waxy to vitreous; Structure: Hexagonal (cryptocrystalline); Cleavage: Uneven/Conchoidal; SG: 2.58–2.64

Hardness: 6
Color: Translucent blue-grey core with brown/red inclusions
Luster: Waxy to vitreous

Identified March 20, 2026More mineral →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through the deposition of silica from groundwater into cavities (vugs) within volcanic or sedimentary rocks. This specimen likely formed tens of millions of years ago in a volcanic environment where mineral-rich water seeped into gas bubbles in lava.

Uses & applications

Predominantly used for lapidary arts, jewelry (cabochons), interior decor, and as metaphysical 'healing' stones. In industry, its hardness makes it useful for precision pendulums or mortar and pestles.

Geological facts

Agates are named after the Achates River in Sicily. They are often characterized by rhythmic banding, though this specific piece shows more chaotic 'plume' or 'moss' like inclusions typical of Jasper-Agate transitions.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its waxy luster on broken surfaces and inability to be scratched by a steel knife. It is commonly found in riverbeds or volcanic regions like the American Northwest, Brazil, and India. Collectors look for clarity and unique 'landscapes' within the stone.

Other mineral specimens

See all

Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Epidote

Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)

metamorphic

Nephrite Jade

Nephrite

Mineral/Rock

Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)

Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)

Metamorphic Rock

Green Apatite on Albite

Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]

mineral

Epidote

Epidote - Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)3(SiO4)3(OH)

mineral