Dendritic Agate
The word, 'Dendritic', comes from Greek and means 'tree-like' which perfectly describes the look of many examples of this gemstone with markings and inclusions that look just like branches and leaves or even complete trees or forests. You would almost swear that it was organic material trapped inside a stone - a bit like mosquitoes stuck in amber - but it is all crystal.
Dendritic Agate Colors
Dendritic Agate tends to have a white, cream, gray or yellowish base color with inclusions of black or brown caused by manganese or iron that creates the tree-like illusion.
Ideally the gemstone will have a light background for the contrasting forest-like landscapes to stand out dramatically.
Read more about gemstones colors here
Dendritic Agate Species
Although it is described as an agate, Dendritic Agate is technically a chalcedony (which in turn is a type of quartz) as it lacks the customary banding for a true agate. However, agates, chalcedonies, jaspers, onyxes, carnelian and more all share very common crystal structures and are divided into different gemstone varieties by their looks more than scientific categories.
Other famous agates include:
- Moss Agate
- Blue Lace Agate
- Sardonyx
- Fire Agate
What are the spiritual benefits of Dendritic Agate?
Dendritic Agate has gained the nickname, 'the Stone of Plentitude' for its ability to bring prosperity, good health and longevity.
Its other virtues include:
- Improves Self-esteem
- Emotional Balance
- Aids Communication
- Promotes an affinity with nature
See our detailed article on Agate meaning and uses
Dendritic Agate and the Chakras
The Chakras can be influenced and realigned by a gemstone with a color that matches the relative chakra. As Dendritic Agate can feature numerous colors it can affect multiple Chakras although I feel the light almost white background color is most potent for the Crown Chakra while the black/brown inclusions will have more bearing on the Root Chakra.
Find more details on Chakra gemstones here
Dendritic Agate Price
Dendritic Agate is a very affordable gemstone with the examples displaying the most interesting or realistic tree- and fern-like patterns getting the higher prices. A gemstone with an even, light colored base color and an impressive natural-looking landscape will be the ideal Dendritic Agate.
Generally, a fine quality Dendritic Agate gemstone should cost around $2 per carat with only the most spectacular natural looking scenic displays demanding higher prices.
Dendritic Agate Treatments
Other than the cutting and polishing it takes to produce these lovely gemstones, Dendritic Agates are not known to be artificially enhanced with treatments such as heating or dyeing. Look out for any vividly colored agates of any variety as this is often a sign of a dyed gemstone.
Dendritic Agate History
All types of agate have a long history of use by man stretching back thousands of years. The organic and natural look of Dendritic Agate has meant it has been linked to harvests, crops and the promise of good yields. Greek farmers would bury Dendritic Agate gemstones along with seeds when sowing and the Romans associated Dendritic Agate with the goddess of plants, Flora.
Where is Dendritic Agate found?
The best sources of Dendritic Agate are Brazil, China, India, Australia, Madagascar, Mexico, Namibia, Uruguay and the USA.
What jewelry is Dendritic Agate suitable for?
Dendritic Agate is rated at 7 on Mohs hardness scale which makes it durable enough for all jewelry items including daily wear pieces.
The dramatic nature scenes make all Dendritic Agate gemstones totally unique so they are ideal for one-of-a-kind pendants or rings and are especially popular with artisanal jewelry makers.
