What is Snakeskin Agate?

Snakeskin Agate from Oregon

Snakeskin agate is a variety of agate with botryoidal formations that give it a 'bobbly' appearance.

Snakeskin agate can be found in Rome and close to Prineville, Oregon, in the U.S.A.

The name is likely to have come about because some snakeskin agate exhibits scale-like markings similar to a snake.

Rocks and minerals are often given trade names to enhance their appeal and marketability. These names are typically more memorable than the scientific name but can be misleading regarding the stone's true chemical composition or origin.

Snakeskin agate is a particularly distinctive mineral because of its raised nodules, known as 'botryoidal' formations. Within the rounded clusters are crystals that form when minerals precipitate out of a solution.

Botryoidal formations occur in a wide variety of minerals, including chalcedony. Agate is a type of chalcedony. Other varieties of chalcedony include jasper, carnelian and onyx.

Chalcedony is a microcrystalline variety of quartz, meaning its crystals are too small to be seen with the naked eye.

The word 'botryoidal' comes from the Greek 'botryoides' meaning 'cluster of grapes.' In geology, 'botryoidal' describes a mineral formation that's spherical or globular, similar to a bunch of grapes.

Botryoidal hematite and botryoidal malachite are relatively common. In snakeskin agate, these formations create distinctive nodules or protrusions that jut out from the surface of the stone. Within the nodules, there could be distinctive concentric bands. 

Although agate can be exceptionally colourful, it often occurs in grey, white and black. Therefore, a significant amount of agate is dyed to make it more appealing. Polished agate slices in almost every colour are widely available.

Snakeskin agate is popular with collectors. Some outer sections of the stone exhibit a vitreous lustre, while others are dull. Stones with a vitreous lustre reflect light, while those with a dull lustre absorb it.

Article Photos

The snakeskin agate in our photo is from our collection. The photo is clickable and redirects to the original image.

Pop-up photos: Agate - Courtesy of Captain Tenneal. Botryoidal hematite - Courtesy of St. John.