Fire Agate
Fire Agate is an agate variety with iridescent internal color flashes, usually in warm brown, orange, red, and gold tones.
Fire Agate properties at a glance
| Type | Quartz Family |
|---|---|
| Chemical formula | SiO2 |
| Mohs hardness | 7 |
| Crystal system | hexagonal |
| Luster | waxy |
| Streak | White |
| Cleavage | None |
| Fracture | Conchoidal |
| Specific gravity | 2.6 |
| Transparency | translucent |
| Common colors | Brown, Orange, Red, Gold, Iridescent |
| Rarity | uncommon |
Geology & background
Forms when chalcedony layers include thin iron oxide films that create interference colors when cut or polished.
Fire Agate became especially prized in Southwestern US and Mexican lapidary markets for its iridescent play of color.
How to identify Fire Agate
- Look for the distinctive color, pattern, and translucency associated with Fire Agate.
- Photograph a fresh or polished surface in natural light and avoid glare.
- Use hardness, luster, fracture, and locality together; many chalcedony trade varieties overlap visually.
Where Fire Agate is found
Fire Agate is a trade or collector label that may vary by locality; verify provenance when a source locality is important.
How much is Fire Agate worth?
| Entry-level specimen | $15 |
|---|---|
| Typical collector specimen | $90 |
| Premium specimen | $1000+ |
Value depends on size, condition, color, pattern, locality, preparation, and provenance. Treat this as educational guidance, not an appraisal.
Common uses
- Cabochons
- Jewelry
- Display specimens
- Lapidary material
Interesting facts
- Best specimens show internal fire-like flashes.
- Arizona and Mexico are famous sources.
- Rough fire agate may look modest until properly cut.
Care & safety
Treat Fire Agate as a collector specimen unless hardness, cleavage, and fracture are confirmed.
Avoid inhaling dust. Do not cut, grind, or polish unknown specimens without eye protection and a properly rated respirator.
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