DESCRIPTION:
Chalcedony is a quartz made up of crystals so small that they can only be seen through a microscope. This type of rock is also referred to as a “cryptocrystalline” quartz, and is formed in the holes of volcanic and sedimentary rocks. Chalcedony can also form from organic material over millions of years replacing it in a stone form. Petrified wood is an example of organic material being replaced by chalcedony. There are various forms of chalcedony including opals, jasper, and agates, each with its own trace elements that distinguish them by different designs and colors like apple-green, red carnelian, and bloodstone.
COMMONLY FOUND:
Chalcedony can be found in all 50 states, as well as other parts of the world. Petrified wood can be found in Arizona, along with fire agate, carnelian, and jasper. Other forms such as thunder egg agate can be found in Oregon, and the northwestern part of the U.S. Bloodstone is found in India, and Scotland. Onyx can be found in Brazil and India.
INTERESTING FACTS:
Chalcedony rocks are considered to be the earliest materials used by humans for cutting tools, arrowheads, and eating utensils like bowls and cups. The Native Americans thought of this stone as sacred and believed it to promote stability and balance in life.
