This is an all-natural Fire Agate gemstone rough mineral specimen which measures 3 x 2-1/4 x 1-1/4 inches in size and weighs 5.0 ounces (142.3 grams). This specimen is a good example of the geological process in which fire agates are formed; which is when hot water, saturated with silica and iron oxide, repeatedly fills cracks and voids in the surrounding rock, thus forming the botryoidal (grape-like) growth of a fire agate gemstone. This specimen consists of a chalcedony and quartz filled seam sandwiched between the normal rhyolite host rock. In the center of the mineralized seam is an embedded all natural green, gold and orange colored fire agate gem. The gemstone itself measures approx. 10 x 6 mm.
This specimen is totally natural, as found at the mine, with only a toothbrush scrubbed cleaning performed on the piece after the mining extraction. The gem itself could be polished for better display purposes (see the 'wet' photos, which simulate a polish) however we left it as found in nature for those of you who prefer unaltered specimens. Photographs were taken outdoors in sunlight, while the stone was both wet and dry, and indoors under lights for best visual display.
Fire agate, a variety of chalcedony with an ancient and fiery beginning, is a natural gemstone found in areas of the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. Approximately 24-36 million years ago these areas were subjected to massive volcanic activity during the Tertiary Period. The agates were formed during this period of vulcanism when hot water saturated with silica and iron oxide repeatedly filled cracks and bubbles in the surrounding rock, often forming a botryoidal (grape-like) growth.
Fire agate gems have beautiful iridescent rainbow colors with a measurement of hardness on the MOHS scale of between 6.5-7 which prevent the issues of cracking and scratching. The rainbow colors found within fire agates, created by the Schiller effect as found in mother-of-pearl and fire opal, is caused by the alternating silica and iron oxide layers which diffract and allow light to pass which forms the interference of colors known as fire. This play of color requires good lighting conditions for best fire display.
This piece is a 100% natural rock and may be subject to normal flaws as found in nature or the result of hard-rock mining extraction (cracks, chips, etc).
Shipping: Within the US $8.95 for USPS Priority Mail Small Flat Rate Box. For shipments outside the United States, cost will be $29.95 for USPS International Priority Mail Small Flat Rate Box. International buyers are responsible for any and all required tariffs, taxes, custom duties and any related importation fees.
Return Policy: We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on all our sales with a 14-day return policy and no restocking fee. Items must be returned in their original condition. If you would like a refund on your purchase, you must contact us within 14 days of receipt of the merchandise.
Miscellaneous: We are fully licensed to conduct business within the State of Arizona and must collect sales tax from Arizona residents. Other customers are responsible for any required local sales, or use tax, in their jurisdiction.
About Us: Fire Agate US specialize in Fire Agates! We are located in Arizona, one of the few locations in the world where Fire Agates can be found. We currently operate multiple gemstone mines and have access to some of the best fire agate material available.
ProductID: DCM023
Fire Agate US is a Registered Trade Name of Maricopa Mining LLC. Photographs Copyright © 2019-2014 Maricopa Mining LLC. All Rights Reserved.
