AllMineralsRock
Chalcedony
Chalcedony is a very popular gemstone composed of silicon dioxide. [1]
Chalcedony: Quick Facts and Characteristics
Some quick facts for Chalcedony:- Transparency: Chalcedony can be opaque, translucent or transparent.
- Crystallography: In terms of crystallography, chalcedony can be hexagonal or trigonal.
- Luster: In terms of luster, chalcedony can be dull, vitreous (glassy) or waxy.
- Streak: Chalcedony streaks white.
- Hardness: Chalcedony's hardness is 7 on the Moh's scale.
- Specific Gravity: Chalcedony's specific gravity ranges from 2.55 to 2.91.
Chalcedony: Background and Summary
Chalcedony is a mineral that is widely used in jewelry making, carvings, and decorative objects. It is a member of the quartz family and is composed of microscopic crystals of quartz that are arranged in a fibrous or microcrystalline structure. The mineral is typically translucent or opaque and can come in a range of colors, including white, gray, blue, brown, and red. Chalcedony is often found in association with other minerals such as agate, jasper, and onyx.One of the easiest ways to identify chalcedony is by its waxy luster and smooth surface. It is often confused with other minerals such as quartz, opal, or agate, but chalcedony has a distinctive translucency and an almost waxy appearance. The mineral can be identified by its hardness, which is typically around 7 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively durable compared to other minerals.
Chalcedony has a wide range of uses, both practical and decorative. It is a popular choice for jewelry making, where it is often cut into cabochons or beads. The mineral is also used in carvings and decorative objects, such as figurines, vases, and bowls. In addition, chalcedony is used in the production of abrasives, as a filler in cement, and as a component in dental fillings.
Chalcedony: Table of Properties
| Attribute | Chalcedony (src) |
|---|---|
| Transparency | transparent, translucent, opaque |
| Chemical Formula | SiO2 |
| Chemical Composition | silicon dioxide |
| Specific Gravity | 2.55, 2.91 |
| Hardness | 7 |
| Streak | white |
| Crystallography | hexagonal, trigonal |
| Refractive Index | 1.54, 1.553 |
| Hydrous | No |
| Colors | common: red sometimes: blue, gray, pink, black, brown, green, white, orange, purple, yellow, band, multicolor |
| Category | quartz |
Chalcedony: FAQ
Q: Is chalcedony a rare mineral?A: No, chalcedony is a relatively common mineral that is found in many parts of the world.
Q: What is the difference between chalcedony and agate?
A: Chalcedony and agate are both members of the quartz family, but agate is characterized by its banded appearance, while chalcedony is typically solid in color.
Q: Can chalcedony be used in crystal healing?
A: Yes, chalcedony is believed to have healing properties and is often used in crystal healing practices. It is said to help with communication, emotional balance, and mental clarity.
Sources
- "Chalcedony." Mindat.org. Accessed August 26, 2021. https://www.mindat.org/min-942.html.- "Chalcedony." Geology.com. Accessed August 26, 2021. https://geology.com/minerals/chalcedony.shtml.
- Chalcedony: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chalcedony
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