Where is Moss Agate found?
Chalcedony (a variety of quartz) with dendritic inclusions of manganese or iron oxides
Got a photo? Identify rocks instantly with the Rockby app
Open the appMoss Agate occurs in specific geological environments. Knowing where to look, and in what kind of rock, is the difference between going home empty-handed and finding a great specimen.
Where to find Moss Agate
India (Deccan Traps)
A major source, particularly from the Deccan Traps region, known for producing high-quality Moss Agate with vibrant green inclusions.
United States (Montana, Wyoming, Oregon, Washington)
Montana is famous for its 'Montana Moss Agate' with distinctive black and red dendritic patterns. Other states also yield significant deposits.
Brazil
Produces various forms of agate, including Moss Agate, often with a range of inclusion colors.
Uruguay
Known for its agate deposits, including some with moss-like inclusions.
Australia
Found in various localities, often associated with volcanic terrains.
Collecting tips
- Look in Volcanic and Sedimentary Environments. Search in areas with weathered volcanic rocks, riverbeds, and gravel deposits where agates are often eroded and concentrated. Sedimentary formations with silica-rich solutions can also host Moss Agate.
- Examine for Translucency and Inclusions. Moss Agate is typically translucent. Hold potential specimens up to light to observe the characteristic dendritic patterns within the chalcedony matrix.
- Check for Hardness. As a variety of quartz, Moss Agate will scratch glass and steel (Mohs hardness 6.5-7). This helps differentiate it from softer minerals.
- Observe Luster. Unpolished Moss Agate typically exhibits a waxy to dull luster, while polished surfaces will show a vitreous sheen.
Quick Check
- Color:
- Colorless, white, or gray matrix with green, black, brown, or red dendritic patterns.
- Luster:
- Waxy to vitreous.
- Streak:
- White.
Explore Moss Agate
Identify rocks anywhere
Free on iOS, Android, and Web. Photo identification, full database, and your personal collection.