Quick Facts
Formation & Origin
Tree agate is an opaque white chalcedony with green dendritic (tree-like branching) inclusions that create patterns resembling ferns, moss, or miniature trees. Unlike moss agate (which is translucent), tree agate is fully opaque.
The green dendrites are inclusions of chlorite, celadonite, or other green minerals that infiltrated the chalcedony along micro-fractures during or after formation. The branching patterns follow the fracture geometry, creating organic-looking shapes through entirely inorganic processes. Each pattern is unique, making every tree agate one of a kind.
Dendrites grow through a process called diffusion-limited aggregation, where mineral-bearing solutions infiltrate through narrow channels and deposit material at the advancing front. The branching occurs because the solution reaches some areas faster than others, creating the characteristic tree-like pattern.
Identification Guide
Tree agate is identified by its white opaque chalcedony base with green dendritic patterns. Unlike moss agate (translucent with three-dimensional inclusions), tree agate is opaque and the dendrites appear more like printed patterns on a white surface.
Distinguish from moss agate (translucent body), dendritic agate (typically translucent with dark dendrites), and painted stones (dendrites should be mineral inclusions within the stone, not on the surface). Tree agate has the hardness (7) and feel of chalcedony.
Spotting Fakes
Tree agate is affordable and rarely faked. The main concern is natural vs. enhanced: some material may have the green color enhanced by dyeing. Natural tree agate shows green dendrites that vary in intensity and have organic-looking borders. Uniformly vivid green throughout, or green that follows fractures in an unnatural way, may indicate enhancement.
Cultural & Metaphysical Traditions
Presented as cultural traditions, not scientific evidence
Tree agate is called the 'stone of plenitude' and has one of the oldest agricultural connections in the crystal tradition. European farmers placed it in fields for abundant harvests. Practitioners associate it with growth, new beginnings, and abundance. The tree-like patterns connect it to themes of branching possibilities and organic growth at your own pace.
Where It's Found
Primary commercial source
Good quality material
Some fine specimens
Collector-grade material
Price Guide
Good to Know
Scratch test: At hardness 7, Tree Agate can scratch glass and steel. It's durable enough for any type of jewelry.
Sources: Found in 4 notable locations worldwide, from India to United States.
Heft test: Tree Agate has average mineral density (2.58-2.64). It feels about as heavy as you'd expect from a stone its size.