Moss agate faceted kite cabochon, 14×10 mm, flat back. Kite shape with facets on the front. Semi-transparent base with green chlorite inclusions. Hardness 6.5–7 Mohs. Unique piece for bezel setting, earring, or pendant in 925 silver.
Piece Details
| Mineral |
Moss Agate (chalcedony with chlorite inclusions, SiO₂) |
| Dimensions |
14×10 mm (±0.5 mm) |
| Shape and Back |
Kite shape with facets on front, flat back |
| Finish |
Polished faceted; smooth reverse |
| Hardness |
6.5–7 Mohs — we recommend closed bezel or prong setting |
| Origin |
India |
| Treatment |
Untreated |
| Piece Type |
Unique piece |
This specific piece
The faceted kite shape is unusual in the moss agate market: most cabochons of this variety are smooth domes.
At 14×10 mm, it is a contained size piece, ideal for symmetrical earrings, a minimalist pendant or a medium-sized ring. The angled profile of the kite calls for a setting that respects the four vertices: closed bezel or prong setting at the main vertices.
How moss agate inclusions are formed
The "moss" in moss agate is not plant material: it is chlorite crystals, an iron and magnesium phyllosilicate (Mg,Fe)₃(Si,Al)₄O₁₀(OH)₂. Chlorite crystallizes within the chalcedony mass during the cooling of hydrothermal fluids, following the weakness planes of the host mineral.
What mounting it works for
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Closed bezel in 925 silver or gold — The angular shape with four vertices requires a custom-made bezel that follows the exact contour; a 0.7–0.8 mm sheet is sufficient for the 14×10 mm size.
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Minimalist earring (pair) — If you have two pieces from the same batch with similar dimensions, the kite shape is striking as an earring; its geometric yet unconventional silhouette adds originality to the design.
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Geometric wire wrap — The four vertices facilitate 24–26 gauge wire wrap anchors for a delicate wrapping that follows the shape without hiding the green inclusions.
Moss agate in lapidary tradition
Moss agate has documentation as a jewelry material since ancient India, where its green inclusions associated it with Buddha (Mercury in Vedic astrology) and the plant kingdom.
In crystal tradition, moss agate is associated with growth, fertility, and connection to nature. It is considered the gardener's and farmer's stone.
The symbolic properties attributed to minerals belong to cultural and historical traditions. They are shared for educational purposes, not as medical advice.
How to recognize genuine moss agate
Genuine chlorite inclusions are seen in three dimensions: when rotating the stone, the green pattern appears to have volume and depth. Painted imitations show the pattern exactly on the surface; colored green glass imitations do not have a differentiated translucent base.
Frequently asked questions
Is the green the color of the mineral or is it dye?
No detectable treatment. The green comes from the chlorite inclusions, a silicate mineral that crystallizes naturally within the agate. The color is not a surface dye. Statement based on lapidary observation; the piece does not include gemological certification.
Are the facets suitable for bezel?
Yes. The bezel goes over the contour (back + perimeter), not over the facets of the front; the facets remain exposed and visible. We recommend a closed bezel that follows the angular perimeter of the kite.
Is it a unique piece?
Yes. The number in the title identifies the specific specimen. The pattern of chlorite inclusions is unique in each piece.
What are the exact dimensions?
Nominal: 14×10 mm. Tolerance ±0.5 mm in any dimension.
Does it withstand daily use in an earring?
With a hardness of 6.5–7 Mohs, it is suitable for daily use with a bezel that protects the perimeter. The facets are not particularly vulnerable to scratching by common everyday materials (metal, fabric). Avoid contact with ceramic and granite.
How to care for it?
Warm water and mild soap. Dry well. Consult the jewelry and mineral care guide.
See also: all cabochons and the mineral properties blog.
