Is This Agate?

Spheroidal Amethystine – isn’t this a mouthful? AKA Grape Agate is a botryoidal form of chalcedony in the quartz rock family. Grape agate is a newcomer to the “interesting gemstone” scene, having been brought to the market in 2015. It’s found primarily in Indonesia, with some discoveries in the Green River area of Utah showing reddish-orange hues. Personally, I don’t find the Utah grape agate to be as visually exciting as the Indonesian stones. The Utah variety is, however, a unique stone for collectors.

Grape Agate is not an agate – it’s chemical make-up and growth patterns are quite different. The mineral is believed to have formed approximately 20 million years ago during the Miocene period, when silica-rich fluids precipitated within voids created by lava flows interacting with cold seawater.

The purple, lavender and green color varieties from Indonesia are truly a jewelry makers dream gem. Sparkly, luscious color and infinitely unique. My favorite gemstone attributes!