sedimentary

Yellow Agate (Banded Chalcedony)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 6.5-7 Mohs. Color: Yellow, honey, brown, and white banding. Luster: Vitreous to waxy. Structure: Cryptocrystalline. Cleavage: None. Specific Gravity: 2.58-2.64.

Hardness: 6
Color: Yellow, honey, brown, and white banding
Luster: Vitreous to waxy

Identified July 19, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6.5-7 Mohs. Color: Yellow, honey, brown, and white banding. Luster: Vitreous to waxy. Structure: Cryptocrystalline. Cleavage: None. Specific Gravity: 2.58-2.64.

Formation & geological history

Formed as a secondary mineral in volcanic rock cavities (vesicles) or sedimentary rock through the precipitation of silica from groundwater. Often found in Cenozoic deposits.

Uses & applications

Primarily used for jewelry, lapidary art, tumble-polishing, and as decorative gemstones/pendants.

Geological facts

Agate is a variety of chalcedony that shows distinct color banding. The name 'Agate' comes from the Achates River in Sicily, where agates were first discovered in ancient times.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its waxy luster, conchoidal fracture, and concentric or parallel banding when polished. Often found in riverbeds or near ancient volcanic activity.