gemstone

Polished agate or jasper cabochon

Microcrystalline quartz (chalcedony), chiefly SiO₂; exact variety is uncertain from the image

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Smooth, polished, elongated brown-orange stone with cream-white curved banding and likely translucent edges; quartz hardness 6.5–7, vitreous to waxy luster, cryptocrystalline structure, no visible cleavage, specific gravity about 2.6.

Identified September 8, 2026More gemstone →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Silica-rich groundwater deposited chalcedony in cavities of volcanic rock, producing bands over millions of years, commonly during the Cenozoic or older volcanic episodes. The specimen has been cut and polished into a cabochon.

Uses & applications

Used for cabochons, jewelry, carvings, ornamental objects, and lapidary collections; durable but less valuable than transparent gem quartz.

Geological facts

The curved pale bands suggest agate, while its opaque brown body could also be jasper or brecciated chalcedony. Identification can be confirmed by translucency, quartz hardness, and microscopic banding.

Field identification & locations

Common in volcanic terrains worldwide, especially Brazil, Uruguay, India, Madagascar, Mexico, and the western United States; it should scratch glass but not be scratched by a steel knife. The surrounding material appears to be fabric or fur, not part of the specimen.