
mineral
Tumbled chalcedony (likely agate or jasper)
Microcrystalline quartz, SiO₂ (chalcedony)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness 6.5–7 Mohs; gray, blue-gray, cream, and brown coloration with a waxy to vitreous luster. Cryptocrystalline quartz has no visible cleavage and typically conchoidal fracture; the rounded shape appears tumbled or naturally water-worn.
Identified More mineral →
Explore Tumbled chalcedony (likely agate or jasper) in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness 6.5–7 Mohs; gray, blue-gray, cream, and brown coloration with a waxy to vitreous luster. Cryptocrystalline quartz has no visible cleavage and typically conchoidal fracture; the rounded shape appears tumbled or naturally water-worn.
Formation & geological history
Forms when silica-rich groundwater fills cavities, fractures, or vesicles in volcanic rocks, precipitating microscopic quartz fibers and occasional banding. Formation ages vary widely, commonly from Paleozoic to Cenozoic deposits.
Uses & applications
Used for cabochons, beads, carvings, lapidary specimens, and ornamental stone; durable pieces may be polished for jewelry.
Geological facts
Chalcedony is an aggregate of quartz and moganite, and its varieties include agate, jasper, carnelian, and chrysoprase.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its translucent-to-opaque appearance, waxy surface, hardness, and lack of cleavage; agate usually shows curved bands, while jasper is more opaque and earthy. Common sources include Brazil, Uruguay, India, Madagascar, Mexico, and the western United States.
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Tumbled granite
Granite, a coarse-grained felsic intrusive igneous rock
igneous
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous