mineral

Dragon Vein Agate (Dyed)

SiO2

Hardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs scale), Color: Various (often dyed bright colors like purple, pink, blue, green), Luster: Vitreous, Crystal structure: Cryptocrystalline, Cleavage: None, Specific gravity: 2.58-2.64

Hardness: 6

Identified June 17, 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 in cavities in igneous rock. The characteristic 'dragon vein' pattern is often enhanced or created artificially by heating and dyeing the stone. The darker veins are caused by the dye settling into the cracks.

Uses & applications

Primarily used in jewelry making (beads, cabochons, pendants) and for ornamental purposes.

Geological facts

The distinctive crackled appearance, known as 'dragon vein', is usually a result of a treatment process rather than a natural occurrence, especially when accompanied by very vivid colors that are not typical of natural agate.

Field identification & locations

Identifiable by its distinct, contrasting web-like or crackled pattern against a translucent or semi-translucent background, often with very bright, saturated colors indicative of dyeing. Commonly found in craft stores and gem shows.