Updated as of June 2026
Agate
A banded chalcedony valued across cultures for grounding, stability, and protection.
Price range$2 to $30/ct
Hardness (Mohs)6.75
ColorsMulticolor, Gray, Blue, Brown, White
BirthstoneNone
AltGems Score How we score
5.8/10
Agate pros and cons
Pros
- Good durability (Mohs 6.75) for most jewelry
- Strong value for the look
Cons
- Softer at Mohs 6.75, best in protected settings
- Commonly treated (dyeing (very common))
Agate is ideal for earrings, pendants, and occasional-wear rings, and works in everyday rings with a protective setting.
Explore Agate
Meaning and properties
Symbolism, zodiac, chakraPrice and value
What it costs and whyBuying guide
How to choose and where to buyCare and cleaning
Keep it looking its bestAgate jewelry
Common buying mistakes
- Buying on carat weight alone instead of color and cut, which drive beauty more.
- Skipping treatment disclosure, which changes both value and care.
- Setting this softer stone (Mohs 6.75) in an exposed daily-wear ring instead of a protective bezel or halo.
- Cleaning it the wrong way. Durable. Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid prolonged heat and harsh chemicals.
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Where to buy Agate: for fine pieces, choose established jewelers with clear return policies and lab reports; for unique or budget pieces, vetted marketplace sellers work well. Always confirm treatment and the return window before buying. AltGems prices are general per-carat guides, so verify value with a certified gemologist or GIA report.
Frequently asked questions
What is Agate?
A banded chalcedony valued across cultures for grounding, stability, and protection. It rates 6.75 on the Mohs hardness scale and commonly appears in multicolor, gray, blue, brown, white.
How much does Agate cost?
Agate typically runs about $2 to $30 per carat depending on color, clarity, cut, and origin. See our Agate price guide for detail.
Is Agate good for everyday jewelry?
It rates 6.75 on the Mohs scale, so it suits earrings, pendants, and occasional-wear rings better than daily rough use.
What is the AltGems Score for Agate?
Agate earns an overall AltGems Score of 5.8 out of 10, balancing durability, brilliance, value, rarity, and everyday wearability. See our methodology on the How We Score page.
How do I care for Agate?
Durable. Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid prolonged heat and harsh chemicals.