Frequently asked questions

• Is Tree Agate actually agate, or something else?

  Tree Agate is a chalcedony — the same cryptocrystalline quartz family as classic banded agate — but visually it reads as opaque white with branching green dendritic inclusions rather than translucent banding. The dendrites are mineral deposits of iron and manganese oxides that grew into fractures in the host chalcedony, creating fern- or tree-like patterns. Mineralogically it sits in the trigonal quartz system at Mohs 6.5–7. Some references classify it closer to a white chalcedony with inclusions rather than a true banded agate, but in the bead trade it's universally sold and recognized as Tree Agate.
• How is Tree Agate different from Moss Agate and Dendritic Agate?

  All three are chalcedony with mineral inclusions, but the look and base material differ. Tree Agate has an opaque white-to-cream base with distinct branching dendrites — the pattern reads as structured, tree-like. Moss Agate has a translucent-to-clear base with diffuse, cloudy green inclusions that look more like suspended foliage than branches. Dendritic Agate typically has a translucent gray, beige, or white base with sharp black or brown dendritic patterns, often more graphic and high-contrast. If your design needs a solid opaque white background to anchor color, Tree Agate works; if you want translucency, reach for Moss or Dendritic.
• Is Tree Agate dyed or treated?

  Tree Agate is typically sold untreated — the green pattern comes from natural mineral inclusions, not dye, and the white base is the host chalcedony's natural color. This is one of the agates where treatment is uncommon, unlike the brightly colored banded agates that are routinely dyed. That said, treatment should be disclosed for the specific strand — ask before buying if it isn't specified. Because the material is naturally colored, you don't need to worry about color bleed when stringing on light-colored cord or near pearls.
• What kind of jewelry does Tree Agate work well in?

  Tree Agate's opaque white base with organic green branching makes it a natural fit for botanical, garden, and nature-themed pieces — it pairs cleanly with sterling silver, raw brass, leather cord, and freshwater pearls. The neutral white background means it doesn't fight other stones, so it works as a quiet anchor against more saturated colors like carnelian, lapis, or amazonite. At Mohs 6.5–7 it handles bracelets, necklaces, and earrings without issue. Larger formats like 9mm rounds, rondelles, and donut focal pieces carry the dendrite pattern well; smaller beads can read as plain off-white from a distance.
• How should finished Tree Agate jewelry be cared for?

  At Mohs 6.5–7 Tree Agate is durable enough for daily wear in necklaces, earrings, and bracelets, though rings see enough abrasion that softer chalcedonies can show wear over time. Clean with mild soap, lukewarm water, and a soft cloth — avoid ultrasonic cleaners, steamers, and harsh solvents, which can stress any internal fractures the dendrites grew into. Keep it away from prolonged sun exposure and household chemicals like bleach and chlorine. Store separately from harder stones (topaz, sapphire, quartz crystal) to prevent surface scratches on the polished bead.