Quartz Family · uncommon
Fire Agate
Fire Agate is an agate variety with iridescent internal color flashes, usually in warm brown, orange, red, and gold tones.
Also known as: iridescent agate, mexican fire agate.
Fire Agate properties at a glance
| Type | Quartz Family |
|---|---|
| Chemical formula | SiO2 |
| Mohs hardness | 7 |
| Crystal system | hexagonal |
| Luster | waxy |
| Streak | White |
| Cleavage | None |
| Fracture | Conchoidal |
| Specific gravity | 2.6 |
| Transparency | translucent |
| Common colors | Brown, Orange, Red, Gold, Iridescent |
| Rarity | uncommon |
Geology & background
Forms when chalcedony layers include thin iron oxide films that create interference colors when cut or polished.
Fire Agate became especially prized in Southwestern US and Mexican lapidary markets for its iridescent play of color.
How to identify Fire Agate
- Look for the distinctive color, pattern, and translucency associated with Fire Agate.
- Photograph a fresh or polished surface in natural light and avoid glare.
- Use hardness, luster, fracture, and locality together; many chalcedony trade varieties overlap visually.
Full Fire Agate identification guide: checklist, home tests and look-alikes →
Fire Agate vs similar stones
Not sure it isn't something else? Side-by-side comparisons with the stones most often confused with Fire Agate.
Where Fire Agate is found
Fire Agate is a trade or collector label that may vary by locality; verify provenance when a source locality is important.
How much is Fire Agate worth?
| Entry-level specimen | $15 |
|---|---|
| Typical collector specimen | $90 |
| Premium specimen | $1000+ |
Value depends on size, condition, color, pattern, locality, preparation, and provenance. Treat this as educational guidance, not an appraisal.
Common uses
- Cabochons
- Jewelry
- Display specimens
- Lapidary material
Interesting facts
- Best specimens show internal fire-like flashes.
- Arizona and Mexico are famous sources.
- Rough fire agate may look modest until properly cut.
Care & safety
Treat Fire Agate as a collector specimen unless hardness, cleavage, and fracture are confirmed.
Avoid inhaling dust. Do not cut, grind, or polish unknown specimens without eye protection and a properly rated respirator.
Fire Agate FAQ
What is Fire Agate?
Fire Agate is an agate variety with iridescent internal color flashes, usually in warm brown, orange, red, and gold tones.
How much is Fire Agate worth?
Entry-level Fire Agate specimens sell for around $15, a typical collector specimen for about $90, and premium pieces for $1000 or more. Value depends on size, condition, color, pattern, locality, preparation, and provenance. Treat this as educational guidance, not an appraisal.
How hard is Fire Agate?
Fire Agate has a Mohs hardness of 7. It scratches glass and a steel knife and cannot be scratched by a steel file.
Where is Fire Agate found?
Notable sources of Fire Agate include Brazil, India, Madagascar, USA, and Australia. Forms when chalcedony layers include thin iron oxide films that create interference colors when cut or polished..
What is Fire Agate used for?
Fire Agate is used for cabochons, jewelry, display specimens, and lapidary material.
