mineral

Tumbled yellow chalcedony (likely honey agate)

Microcrystalline quartz, SiO₂; chalcedony variety, possibly iron-stained

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness 6.5–7 Mohs; translucent honey-yellow to brown, waxy/vitreous luster, cryptocrystalline structure, and no visible cleavage. The rounded surface and polish indicate a tumbled specimen.

Identified August 16, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness 6.5–7 Mohs; translucent honey-yellow to brown, waxy/vitreous luster, cryptocrystalline structure, and no visible cleavage. The rounded surface and polish indicate a tumbled specimen.

Formation & geological history

Forms when silica-rich groundwater fills cavities, fractures, or pores in volcanic and sedimentary rocks; iron impurities create the yellow-brown color. Chalcedony deposits range from Precambrian to recent geological ages.

Uses & applications

Used for beads, cabochons, carvings, ornamental objects, and inexpensive collector specimens; durable enough for jewelry but less valuable than fine crystalline quartz.

Geological facts

Chalcedony is composed of extremely fine intergrowths of quartz and moganite. Similar material may be sold as yellow agate when it shows banding or other agate-like patterns.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its waxy translucence, smooth conchoidal fracture, absence of cleavage, and resistance to scratching by steel; glass should not easily scratch it. Common sources include Brazil, Uruguay, India, Madagascar, Mexico, and the western United States.