Comparison · Quartz Family
Agate vs Carnelian
Agate and Carnelian are easy to confuse because both are quartz family. Both sit near Mohs 7, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead. Below is a side-by-side comparison of their properties and the quick tests that separate them.
Key differences between Agate and Carnelian
- Both sit near Mohs 7, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead.
- Luster is different: Agate is waxy while Carnelian is vitreous.
- They overlap in brown and red, but Agate also comes in multicolored, blue, green, and gray and Carnelian also comes in orange.
Agate vs Carnelian properties
| Property | Agate | Carnelian |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Quartz Family | Quartz Family |
| Mohs hardness | 7 | 7 |
| Luster | waxy | vitreous |
| Streak | White | White |
| Transparency | translucent | translucent |
| Specific gravity | 2.6 | 2.6 |
| Crystal system | hexagonal | hexagonal |
| Common colors | Banded, Blue, Brown, Red, Green, Gray | Orange, Red-Orange, Reddish-Brown |
| Rarity | common | common |
| Typical specimen value | $5–$300+ | $5–$150+ |
Which is more valuable?
Typical specimens of Agate and Carnelian trade in a similar range, around $25.
About Agate
Agate is a banded variety of chalcedony formed in concentric layers in volcanic rocks. Each layer represents a different period of mineral deposition.
About Carnelian
Carnelian is a warm-colored variety of chalcedony ranging from pale orange to deep red-brown. It's been used in jewelry for over 4,500 years.
Agate vs Carnelian FAQ
Is Agate the same as Carnelian?
No. Both are quartz family, but they are distinct species with different hardness, streak or luster. Both sit near Mohs 7, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead.
How can you tell Agate from Carnelian?
Both sit near Mohs 7, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead. Luster is different: Agate is waxy while Carnelian is vitreous. They overlap in brown and red, but Agate also comes in multicolored, blue, green, and gray and Carnelian also comes in orange.
Which is harder, Agate or Carnelian?
They are about equally hard, both near Mohs 7.
Which is more valuable, Agate or Carnelian?
Typical specimens of Agate and Carnelian trade in a similar range, around $25.
