Moss Agate

Specifications

Mineral Class: Silicate
Crystal System: Trigonal
Hardness: 6.5 - 7
Luster: Vitreous, Waxy
Diaphaneity: Translucent
Colors: Green, White, Brown
Symbolizes: Patience
Source: Brazil, Europe, India, Uruguay, and USA

Moss agate is a semi-precious gemstone formed from silicon dioxide. Moss Agate is not banded, and therefore not strictly an Agate in scientific terms; but is included in the Agate family. It is a form of Chalcedony, a mineral of the Quartz family. It includes minerals of a green color embedded in the stone, forming filaments and other patterns suggestive of moss. The included minerals are mainly oxides of manganese or iron. Moss agate can be clear or milky white, with green dendritic inclusions that resemble moss or lichen. The colors are formed due to trace amounts of metal present as an impurity, such as chrome or iron. The metals can make different colors depending on their valence (oxidation state). Despite its name, Moss Agate does not contain organic matter and is usually formed from weathered volcanic rocks. Moss represents patience, experience, and persistence. Moss Agate is found in countries across the world, including India, Brazil, Uruguay, central European countries, and in the USA. In the USA, it was originally formed in the Yellowstone National Park area of Wyoming as a result of volcanic activity. In Montana, moss agate in the red color is the result of iron oxide and the black color is the result of manganese oxide. The gemstone has also been known as "Mocha stone" after the Arabian city of Mocha in Yemen.