10mm round moss agate cabochon. Translucent chalcedony with green chlorite dendrites forming an internal "mineral garden." Three variants available. Mirror polished flat back.
Piece Details
| Mineral |
Moss agate (chalcedony with chlorite dendrites) |
| Dimensions |
10 mm diameter. Variation ±0.5 mm |
| Shape and Back |
Round, polished flat back |
| Finish |
Mirror polished |
| Hardness |
6.5-7 Mohs — suitable for rings with regular use; we recommend closed bezel setting |
| Origin |
Material acquired from wholesale lapidary market |
| Treatment |
Untreated |
| Piece Type |
Available in 3 variants |
This specific piece
Moss agate does not contain moss: the green "branches" and "filaments" are dendritic crystallizations of chlorite (a green phyllosilicate) within the translucent chalcedony base.
At 10 mm in diameter, the round format is the most versatile for jewelry: it accommodates standard 10 mm prefabricated bezels, facilitates symmetrical wire wrapping, and is the classic size for full-finger rings or small pendants.
How the "garden" of moss agate forms
Agate is a variety of chalcedony (cryptocrystalline SiO₂) that forms by filling cavities in volcanic rocks with silica precipitated from hydrothermal solutions.
What mounting it works for
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Bezel setting (925 silver or other precious metals) — a 10 mm bezel in 925 silver frames the internal "garden" of the stone and protects the edge. Smooth or satin silver works well with the natural green of the dendrites.
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Statement rings — 6.5-7 Mohs hardness allows for regular ring use; the 10 mm round format provides a balanced result without being excessively large.
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Wire wrap — an alternative for those working with wire; the circular shape allows for a regular wrap with 20-22 gauge wire.
Moss agate in lapidary tradition
Agate has been one of the most historically used semi-precious stones, valued since classical antiquity and used by Greeks, Romans, and Persians in seals, cameos, and ceremonial jewelry. Pliny the Elder (Natural History, 1st century AD) described the value of specialized agate engravers.
The symbolic properties attributed to minerals belong to cultural and historical traditions. They are shared for educational purposes, not as medical advice or a substitute for professional care.
How to recognize genuine moss agate
Genuine moss agate has a translucent base (not opaque) with dendrites that can be distinguished as three-dimensional structures under magnification, not as a flat layer of color. Imitations in green glass do not show translucency or internal dendritic structure.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between the three variants?
Each variant is an individual piece with its own dendritic chlorite pattern. The distribution, density, and shape of the green "branches" vary naturally. The product photographs show the three variants separately.
What mounting is it best suited for?
For a 10 mm bezel in 925 silver. The 6.5-7 Mohs hardness allows for regular ring use; we recommend a closed bezel setting to protect the edge. The 10 mm round format accommodates standard prefabricated bezels.
Is it treated?
Untreated. The dendritic green is a result of natural chlorite. Statement based on lapidary observation; the piece does not include formal gemological certification.
Does the internal pattern of the stone change over time?
No. The chlorite dendrites are encapsulated within the solid chalcedony mass; their shape and distribution do not change. What may change is the surface polish if the stone scratches, but the internal pattern is permanent.
What are the dimensions with tolerance?
10 mm in diameter. Variation of ±0.5 mm between the three variants as they are individual lapidary stock.
How to care for it?
Clean with a soft cloth and warm water. Chalcedony is resistant to most cleaning agents, but prolonged ultrasound should be avoided as it can amplify microfractures in dense chlorite areas. See complete jewelry care guide.
More about moss agate: properties and uses of agate. See also: cabochon collection · handmade rings.
