mineral
Polished banded agate slice
Agate, a banded variety of chalcedony (microcrystalline SiO₂)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness 6.5–7 Mohs; translucent gray, cream, and brown concentric bands with a vitreous-to-waxy polish. Trigonal microcrystalline quartz; no visible cleavage and conchoidal fracture.
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Physical properties
Hardness 6.5–7 Mohs; translucent gray, cream, and brown concentric bands with a vitreous-to-waxy polish. Trigonal microcrystalline quartz; no visible cleavage and conchoidal fracture.
Formation & geological history
Silica-rich fluids filled a cavity in volcanic rock and deposited successive layers of chalcedony, commonly during the Cenozoic or older. The slice has been cut and polished.
Uses & applications
Used for jewelry, ornaments, display pieces, and occasionally small carvings; agate is also collected for its distinctive banding.
Geological facts
Agate bands record repeated changes in silica deposition and fluid conditions as the cavity formed.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its fine, curved or concentric bands, translucency, and hardness; agates occur worldwide, especially in volcanic regions. This appears to be a decorative slice, but its source locality cannot be determined from the photo.
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