Agate Slice Mineral Crystal Genuine Display Specimen with COA

Description

Genuine Agate Slice Mineral Specimen

This listing features a genuine Agate Slice, cut and polished to reveal the unique beauty of its natural banding. The specimen shown in the photographs is the exact piece you will receive, with a 1cm scale cube included for accurate size reference. Every slice is supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity, confirming it is a 100% genuine mineral specimen.

Geological Information

Agate is a microcrystalline variety of silica and a member of the chalcedony family. It is characterised by its fine grain, hardness, and colourful banding patterns, formed through the slow deposition of silica-rich fluids within cavities of volcanic rocks and ancient lavas. Over millions of years, layers of silica were deposited in concentric bands, producing the strikingly varied colours and patterns that make agate such a sought-after mineral.

Agate belongs to the quartz group, with a Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7, making it durable and highly suitable for cutting and polishing. Each agate slice reveals the internal beauty of what once formed as a nodule, hidden within volcanic rock until revealed by careful preparation.

Natural vs Dyed Agate

Many agate slices are left in their natural state, displaying earthy colours such as grey, black, brown, and beige. These natural specimens showcase the subtle elegance of unaltered agate banding.

Other slices, particularly those in vibrant colours such as blue, pink, or purple, are genuine agate that has been dyed to enhance the natural banding and make the specimen more visually striking. The process involves cutting the agate into slices using diamond saws, then grinding and polishing the surface to remove imperfections. Dye is applied to enrich the natural patterns, creating specimens that are both decorative and collectible.

Both natural and dyed agate slices are valued by collectors, with each piece being unique in pattern and form.

Historical and Cultural Significance

Agate has been used since ancient times in the art of hardstone carving. Civilisations from Mesopotamia to Ancient Rome valued agate for its durability and beauty, crafting it into ornaments, seals, amulets, and jewellery. Today, agate slices remain popular for decorative purposes, as well as for metaphysical and spiritual practices, where they are believed to promote grounding, balance, and harmony.

Collecting and Display Value

Agate slices are admired for their vibrant colours and intricate banding, making them excellent display pieces for mineral collections, interior décor, or educational purposes. Their translucent properties mean that when placed against light, the internal banding glows with added depth and beauty. Whether natural or dyed, each slice is unique, ensuring no two specimens are ever the same.

Collectors and enthusiasts alike value agate slices as timeless geological treasures, representing both natural history and human craftsmanship in stone preparation.

Authenticity Guarantee

All of our minerals and crystals are 100% genuine specimens. This Agate Slice comes with a Certificate of Authenticity verifying its origin and composition. The specimen shown in the photographs is the exact one you will receive, ensuring complete transparency and confidence in your purchase.