mineral

Blue Agate (Dyed Chalcedony)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 6.5–7 (Mohs scale); Color: Artificial vibrant blue with white bands; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Microcrystalline; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.58–2.64.

Hardness: 6
Color: Artificial vibrant blue with white bands
Luster: Vitreous to waxy

Identified April 18, 2026More mineral →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed as a secondary mineral in cavities within volcanic or metamorphic rocks (vesicles). Silica-rich groundwater deposits layers of microscopically crystalline quartz over long periods. While natural blue agate exists (Blue Lace Agate), this specimen's neon hue is produced through modern chemical dyeing processes.

Uses & applications

Primarily used for decorative purposes, lapidary workshops, jewelry (pendants and beads), and as a popular item for starting crystal collections.

Geological facts

Naturally occurring agate is porous, which makes it the most commonly dyed gemstone in history. The practice of coloring agates dates back over 2,000 years to the Romans, who used honey treatments followed by sulfuric acid.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its characteristic banding and waxy appearance. Naturally occurring agates are usually duller; vibrant blue specimens like this are almost certainly dyed. Commonly found in Brazil, India, and Madagascar.

Other mineral specimens

See all

Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Schist

Metamorphic

Epidote

Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)

metamorphic

Nephrite Jade

Nephrite

Mineral/Rock

Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)

Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)

Metamorphic Rock

Green Apatite on Albite

Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]

mineral