
Agate
Image: <a rel="nofollow" class="external text" href="https://www.panoramio.com/user/8859301?with_photo_id=132987005">Brandon Menth</a> (CC BY 3.0)
Mineral NameAgate
Chemical FormulaSiO2
Mohs Hardness7
Crystal Systemtrigonal
Lustervitreous
Streak Colorwhite
Cleavagenone
Fractureconchoidal
Specific Gravity2.65
Colorsred, orange, brown, white, grey
Transparencytranslucent
Type LocalityWorldwide (e.g., Brazil, Uruguay, Mexico, USA)
Mineral GroupSilicates
Usesjewelry, ornamental objects, collector's item
Associated Mineralsquartz, calcite, zeolites
Raritycommon
Description
This image shows a tumbled or naturally rounded agate displaying distinct concentric bands of red, orange, brown, and white, with some translucent areas.
Geological Context
Agate forms in cavities of volcanic rocks (like basalt) or ancient lavas, where silica-rich fluids deposit layers over time. It can also be found in some sedimentary environments.