mineral
Polished orange agate beads
Chalcedony, microcrystalline quartz (SiO₂), commonly sold as agate
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectTranslucent orange to honey-brown, vitreous to waxy luster; quartz crystals are trigonal, though too fine-grained to see. Mohs hardness 6.5–7; no distinct cleavage. The beads appear polished and may be dyed or otherwise treated.
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Physical properties
Translucent orange to honey-brown, vitreous to waxy luster; quartz crystals are trigonal, though too fine-grained to see. Mohs hardness 6.5–7; no distinct cleavage. The beads appear polished and may be dyed or otherwise treated.
Formation & geological history
Agate forms as silica-rich fluids fill cavities and deposit chalcedony in successive layers, often in volcanic rocks. Its age depends on the host deposit and cannot be determined from the image.
Uses & applications
Used for beads, cabochons, carvings, and decorative objects; chalcedony is also used in minor industrial applications.
Geological facts
Agate is a variety of banded chalcedony, but these bead surfaces show no clear banding, so exact identification is uncertain.
Field identification & locations
Look for fine banding, waxy luster, and hardness sufficient to resist scratching by a steel knife; common sources include Brazil, Uruguay, India, and Madagascar.
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