Red Moss Agate

Red moss agate is a color name for natural moss agate, a variety of chalcedony (microcrystalline quartz, SiO₂), in which the moss-like inclusions are red to brown, alone or mixed with green. Gemological references explain that the green hornblende or chlorite inclusions of moss agate turn brown or red when the iron they contain oxidizes.

Products made with this material

No products for this material yet.

Full material guide
Material facts

What the material is, where it comes from or how it is made, identification and care, from the cited sources.

Properties

Material type Natural moss agate (chalcedony, variety of quartz) with red to brown inclusions
Chemical formula SiO₂
Cause of color Oxidation of iron in hornblende or chlorite inclusions
Mohs hardness 6.5 to 7
Specific gravity 2.58 to 2.64
Refractive index 1.530 to 1.540

Origins & sources

Not collected yet

Identification

Like green moss agate, it shows plant-like inclusions in a milky, translucent chalcedony body, but the inclusions are dark red or brown, and some stones show green, brown and red together. Some people call such stones scenic agate, and some vendors reserve the name "mocha stone" for moss agate with red or brown hues. The IGS notes that the most valuable moss agate tends to be green only, while red and brown are a matter of taste.

Care

Care is the same as for moss agate: light and water do not affect it, but some household chemicals may harm it. Clean it with a soft brush or cloth and mild soapy water, and avoid mechanical cleaning systems, which can shatter some inclusions and fracture the stone.

History & culture

History

Not collected yet

Cultural meanings

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Traditional beliefs

Not collected yet

Sources

Collected Oct 23, 2026