HQ Grape Agate Lavender Crystal Cluster Crystal cluster...

Grape agate is the commercial trade name for a rare, unique form of botryoidal (clustered) purple chalcedony, a microcrystalline variant of quartz. The most sought-after varieties range from soft lilac and lavender to deep dark purple. The color arises from traces of iron and manganese within the crystal structure. Sometimes the spheres have a microscopically thin layer of sparkling crystal points, creating a beautiful 'drusy' glitter effect. Unique locality: The vast majority of high-quality grape agate was only discovered around 2014 and is exclusively mined in the Mamuju region on Sulawesi island in Indonesia. The mineral forms deep in the cavities of volcanic rock (andesite). For millions of years, silica-rich fluids have layered themselves into perfect spheres around a central point. Hardness: It scores 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale. However, the loose spheres can be fragile and break with rough handling.

Estimate:£20.22

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