High quality polished piece of holly blue agate in a gorgeous shade of lavender with white 2024 banding. Contains the rare translucent shade of lavender that is unique to the holly blue. Approximate measurements are 30mm x 20mm x 7mm. Weight is 9.35g.
Holley blue chalcedony (also spelled Holly) from western Oregon is found near Holley, just four miles southwest of the town of Sweet Home (Linn County), near the Calapooia River. The color ranges from a deep blue to a lavender blue. Holley blue chalcedony may also have fine, lacey, white bands and fortification patterns. Due to the banding, the material is also known as Holley Blue agate. This material is held in very high esteem by carvers for its distinct color and uniformity. Sometimes, it comes with an outer layer of rhyolite.
Chalcedony is a cryptocrystalline, or microcrystalline, variety of quartz; its crystals are too small to be distinguished without magnification. While chalcedony may be slightly softer than quartz (Mohs 6.5-7), the compact, dense arrangement of its crystal structure gives chalcedony greater strength. It is hard enough to be used for intricate carvings, takes a high polish, and exhibits good wearability, making it suitable for jewelry pieces.
Product code: Holly Blue Agate Chalcedony, 9.35g, 2024 Oregon