mineral

Polished banded agate

Banded chalcedony, microcrystalline quartz (SiO₂)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness 6.5–7 Mohs; orange-red with pale curved bands, waxy to vitreous luster, and no visible cleavage. Its crystals are microscopic and arranged as fibrous quartz.

Identified September 23, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness 6.5–7 Mohs; orange-red with pale curved bands, waxy to vitreous luster, and no visible cleavage. Its crystals are microscopic and arranged as fibrous quartz.

Formation & geological history

Silica-rich fluids deposited successive layers in a cavity, later solidifying and being polished. Agates form in volcanic and other host rocks over geologic time; the specimen’s exact age and locality cannot be determined from the image.

Uses & applications

Used for jewelry, ornaments, and lapidary work; agate is also used for small decorative objects and historically for precision tools.

Geological facts

Agate’s bands record changes in silica deposition and can form striking concentric patterns.

Field identification & locations

Look for translucency and distinct curved or concentric bands; common sources include Brazil, Uruguay, India, and the United States. The photo shows a small polished piece, but does not establish its precise variety.