sedimentary
Polished Agate or Jasper-Agate
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs); Color: Multicolored (red, orange, yellow, translucent blue-grey); Luster: Vitreous/Waxy; Crystal Structure: Cryptocrystalline (Trigonal); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.58-2.64
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Multicolored (red, orange, yellow, translucent blue-grey)
- Luster
- Vitreous/Waxy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs); Color: Multicolored (red, orange, yellow, translucent blue-grey); Luster: Vitreous/Waxy; Crystal Structure: Cryptocrystalline (Trigonal); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.58-2.64
Formation & geological history
Formed in volcanic and sedimentary rocks where silica-rich groundwater fills cavities and cracks over time. The vibrant colors are caused by trace inclusions of iron (red/orange) and manganese oxides.
Uses & applications
Used primarily in lapidary arts for jewelry, pocket stones, decorative ornaments, and metaphysical collecting.
Geological facts
Agates and Jaspers are varieties of Chalcedony. While Agate is usually translucent and banded, Jasper is typically opaque; this specimen is a mix of both, often referred to as a jasp-agate.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its waxy luster, hardness (it can scratch glass), and lack of cleavage. Common in riverbeds, glacial deposits, and volcanic regions globally, such as the American Northwest or Brazil.
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