Description
5″ Pink Agate Slice – Polished Chalcedony Quartz Crystal
This elegant 5-inch Pink Agate Slice is a beautifully polished example of banded chalcedony quartz, exhibiting delicate layers of soft pink, white, and translucent tones that reveal the intricate natural artistry of the Earth. Each slice has been expertly polished to enhance the clarity of its natural banding and colour variation. The exact specimen shown in the photograph is the one you will receive, accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity verifying it as a genuine, natural crystal specimen.
Geological Formation and Origin
Agate forms as a secondary mineral deposit within the cavities of volcanic and sedimentary rocks. When silica-rich water flows through these cavities, it slowly deposits microscopic layers of quartz, which accumulate over thousands or even millions of years. This process creates the distinctive banded structure that makes agate so visually unique. Each layer represents a period of mineral deposition influenced by subtle changes in temperature, chemistry, and mineral content.
This particular specimen displays striking pink and white colour banding, a combination produced by trace elements such as iron and manganese present in the silica solution during formation. The bands are typically concentric or irregular, following the shape of the original cavity in which the agate formed. Over time, the surrounding host rock weathers away, leaving behind these stunningly preserved chalcedony-filled nodules that can be cut and polished into slices like this one.
Deposits of fine-quality agate occur across the world, with notable sources including Brazil, Uruguay, India, Madagascar, and the United States. Each region’s geological conditions impart distinct colours and textural qualities to the agate formed there.
Mineralogical Characteristics
Mineral Type: Chalcedony (Quartz Group)
Chemical Composition: SiO₂ – Silicon Dioxide
Crystal System: Trigonal (Microcrystalline Aggregate)
Hardness: 6.5–7 on the Mohs Scale
Lustre: Waxy to Vitreous
Fracture: Conchoidal
Transparency: Translucent to Semi-Opaque
Colour: Pink, White, and Translucent Bands
Agate belongs to the quartz family, but its internal structure distinguishes it from other quartz varieties. It is composed of tiny interlocking quartz fibres arranged in concentric layers, creating a smooth texture and remarkable durability. The polishing process brings out its natural gloss and enhances the definition of each band. When held to the light, the translucent layers of this agate slice reveal subtle internal details, showcasing the intricate process of silica crystallisation.
Geological and Aesthetic Significance
Agate’s distinctive banding pattern tells a geological story written over immense spans of time. Each band marks a different stage in the mineral’s growth, a visible record of environmental fluctuations that influenced the mineralising fluids. This geological fingerprint makes every agate specimen unique — a perfect fusion of science and natural beauty.
The pink colouration in this agate evokes warmth and serenity, often associated with emotional balance and calmness. Beyond its aesthetic charm, agate has been valued for centuries as a decorative and symbolic stone. Ancient civilisations carved it into amulets, ornaments, and seals, believing it to offer protection and grounding energy. Today, polished agate slices are prized by collectors, designers, and natural history enthusiasts for their timeless beauty and connection to the Earth’s geological past.
Scientific and Decorative Value
From a scientific standpoint, agate provides valuable insights into low-temperature hydrothermal processes. The layering and mineral inclusions within each specimen help geologists interpret the sequence of geological events that occurred during its formation. Agate also demonstrates the relationship between chemical composition and colour variation in silica-based minerals, making it a cornerstone specimen for mineralogical study.
This 5-inch Pink Agate Slice combines geological significance with natural elegance, making it ideal for display, study, or personal collection. Its finely polished surface reveals the rhythmic banding and subtle shimmer characteristic of high-quality chalcedony quartz. Whether admired for its scientific importance or its soothing aesthetic, it stands as a tangible piece of Earth’s natural history.
Authenticity and Presentation
All crystals offered by UKGE LTD are 100% genuine natural specimens and are supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity confirming their geological origin. The exact specimen shown in the photo is the one you will receive, and a 1 cm scale cube is included for accurate size reference.
This Pink Agate Slice is a masterpiece of natural formation — a harmonious blend of geological precision and visual beauty. Its warm pink hues, intricate banding, and polished finish make it an exceptional addition to any mineral collection, educational exhibit, or home décor setting.
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