Moss Agate
greenwhite · Chalcedony family
| Also known as | Chalcedony (Chalcedony family) |
|---|---|
| Colour | Green, White |
| Mohs hardness | 6–7 |
| Lustre | Waxy, vitreous, dull, greasy, silky |
| Streak | White |
| Crystal system | Trigonal (quartz) or monoclinic (moganite) |
| Transparency | Translucent |
| Cleavage | Absent |
| Fracture | Uneven, splintery, conchoidal |
| Chemical formula | (silica) |
| Specific gravity | 2.59–2.61 |
What is Moss Agate?
Moss agate is a semi-precious gemstone formed from silicon dioxide. It is a form of chalcedony which includes minerals of a green color embedded in the stone, forming filaments and other patterns suggestive of moss. The field is a clear or milky-white quartz, and the included minerals are mainly oxides of manganese or iron. It is not a true form of agate, because it does not have concentric banding.
How to identify Moss Agate
- Lustre: Waxy, vitreous, dull, greasy, silky.
- Hardness: Mohs 6–7 — about as hard as a steel knife.
- Streak: White.
- Habit: Trigonal (quartz) or monoclinic (moganite) crystal system.
Moss Agate in different forms
Stones often confused with Moss Agate
Frequently asked questions
How hard is Moss Agate?
Moss Agate is Mohs 6–7 on the hardness scale.
What colour is Moss Agate?
Moss Agate is typically green, white.