mineral

Polished/tumbled reddish agate (likely carnelian or banded chalcedony)

Chalcedony, microcrystalline SiO₂; exact variety is uncertain from the image

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Opaque to translucent orange-red and cream-white patches with a polished, waxy-to-glassy luster; trigonal silica, no visible cleavage, Mohs hardness 6.5–7, specific gravity about 2.6.

Identified October 11, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Opaque to translucent orange-red and cream-white patches with a polished, waxy-to-glassy luster; trigonal silica, no visible cleavage, Mohs hardness 6.5–7, specific gravity about 2.6.

Formation & geological history

Silica-rich fluids deposited chalcedony in cavities or fractures, commonly in volcanic rocks; agate formed over geologic time, often during the Cenozoic, though its age depends on the host deposit.

Uses & applications

Polished specimens are used in jewelry, ornaments, and collections; agate is also used for small carvings and historical precision components.

Geological facts

Agate is a variety of chalcedony, and its color patterns arise from impurities and changes during silica deposition.

Field identification & locations

Look for hardness, a smooth waxy polish, and irregular color bands or patches; common sources include Brazil, Uruguay, India, and the western United States. The image is consistent with polished agate but does not show enough detail to confirm the variety.