• Location: West Java, Indonesia
• Weight: 18.9 g
• Dimensions: 4.7 x 2.7 x 0.6 cm
• DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Moss agate is an interesting variety of chalcedony, a cryptocrystalline form of quartz. Unlike classic agates, it usually does not show typical banding but is characterized by dendritic inclusions resembling moss or tree branches. These patterns are not organic in origin but come from iron and manganese oxides. Moss agate is most commonly found in translucent or milky white tones with green, brown, black, or red inclusions. Its hardness on the Mohs scale is between 6.5 and 7, equivalent to that of common quartz. It has a waxy to dull luster and is semi-transparent or translucent. Important deposits of moss agate are found in India, Brazil, the United States (especially in Montana, Oregon, and Idaho), Madagascar, and Russia.