Agate
Image: <a href="//commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Sailko" title="User:Sailko">Sailko</a> (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Mineral NameAgate
Chemical FormulaSiO2
Mohs Hardness6.5
Crystal Systemtrigonal
Streak ColorWhite
CleavageNone
FractureConchoidal
Specific Gravity2.58
Colorsbrown, tan, white, cream
TransparencyTranslucent
Type LocalityWidespread (e.g., Brazil, Uruguay, Mexico, USA, India)
Mineral GroupSilicates
Usesjewelry, ornamental objects, carvings, collector's items
Associated Mineralsquartz, calcite, zeolites
Raritycommon
Description
This image displays a polished cross-section of agate, revealing concentric bands of warm brown and tan colors transitioning into a lighter, translucent, and somewhat crystalline interior.
Geological Context
Agate typically forms in the cavities of volcanic rocks, where silica-rich solutions deposit successive layers of chalcedony, often filling amygdules or geodes.
