How Much is Agate Worth

Agate is a fairly common semiprecious stone collected by rock and mineral enthusiasts.  Since it’s extremely popular collectors are always asking how much is their agate worth.  So, I compiled the most recent sales data for agate and provided details below.  I hope you enjoy.

The value of an agate depends on several factors, including the type of agate, the patterns, the contrasting colors, the quality, and size. You can find decent-quality agate for a few dollars per pound at your local rock shop but the high-end agate is typically sold by lapidary artists online. Small tumbled agates, measuring 1-2 inches, will cost you between $2 and $5 each. 

In this article, I’ll take a look at the value of different types of agates and discuss their pricing and some factors that can affect their value.

 

Factors To Look at When Pricing Agate

The value of agate depends on many factors, including the stone’s color, pattern, and size. The most valuable agates are those with rare colors or patterns. Large rocks are also more valuable than small ones.

If you’re not sure if you have agate, jasper, chalcedony or some other type of rock then use my “how to identify agate” page to help with determining which gemstone you have.

Let’s take an in-depth look at these factors below:

 

Weight

Agate weighs in carats, and one carat equals 200 milligrams. Therefore, the weight of the agate will determine the price, with larger pieces costing more than small ones.

You should also note that the quality of the agate also affects its size-price. For example, a 15-carat agate might cost $60, while a similar quality 25-carat agate could cost $350.

 

Quality

The quality of the agate plays a crucial factor in determining its value. Agates free of cracks or blemishes are more valuable than those with imperfections.

The color of the agate can also affect its quality. Stones with deep and rich colors are of higher quality than those with pale or muted colors.

 

Color

Agate comes in various colors, and the stone’s value will depend on the rarity of its color. Some of the most valuable agates are those with rare shades such as blue, green, or red. Other colors like black and white are more abundant in the market and less valuable.

Agates featuring beautiful bands of colors are sure to catch anyone’s eye and command a higher price. For example, an agate with vibrant colors may be worth more than a muted agate.

 

Pattern and Shape

Agates with unique patterns are more valuable than those with common patterns. Some of the most valuable agate patterns are dendritic, fortified, or those with bands.

You can also price agates according to their shape. Symmetrically shaped agates are generally more expensive than those with irregular shapes. For example, an oval-shaped blue agate is worth more than an irregularly shaped one.  This is due to the oval-shaped agates use in jewelry.  It is much easier for a jeweler to set a uniform-shaped stone than an irregular one.

 

Types of Agate and Their Worth

There are many types of agate, each with its unique properties and worth. However, the most common types of agate include:

 

 

Blue Agate

Blue agate is one of the most popular and valuable types of agate. It has healing properties and can promote peace and calmness.

Amazon offers you an irregular blue agate at $14.99 per carat. But the agate can be worth more or less depending on the individual stone. For example, Etsy’s Ellensburg blue agate is worth $10-$50.

 

 

Black Agate

Black agate is a receiving stone with calming and soothing properties. It also opens the Root Chakra.

The price of a black agate depends on its weight and shape. For example, you can find 1-pound chips of irregular black agate at $13.98. The quality of the agate can also affect the price, with higher-quality specimens fetching a higher price.

 

 

Red Agate

People associate red agate with guardian angels and Mother Earth. Its price can vary depending on its quality and size, but it is generally worth around $10 to $12 per carat. For example, a tumbled polished natural red agate goes for $11.45 at Walmart.

 

 

White Agate

Generally, white agate is worth less than other colors of agate. But prices can range from a few dollars to several hundred dollars per ounce. For example, you can find a polished white agate tumbled stone on Etsy for $2 to $10.

 

 

Grape Agate

A grape agate features a purple or reddish color. Grape agate is worth around $10-$50 on Etsy or Amazon, depending on the stone’s quality. Stones that are larger or have a more vibrant color tend to be worth more. Grape agate has become fairly popular as of late so I put together a post called “everything you need to know about grape agate“. Take a look and let me know what you think.

 

 

Fire Agate

Fire agate is a very rare gemstone. Even so, a high-quality fire agate can be worth thousands of dollars per carat. This makes it one of the most valuable gemstones on the market. A fire agate will sell for around $15-$20 per carat. But depending on the quality and size of the agate, prices can range from $30-$100 per carat.

 

 

Carnelian Agate

Carnelian agate is a gemstone with metaphysical properties that promote creativity and vitality. The agate sells for $10-$50 per carat. The price varies depending on the gemstone’s quality, rarity, and color.

 

 

Tree Agate

Tree agate is a chalcedony characterized by its unique patterns resembling trees or branches. It’s worth around $5-$20 on Etsy, depending on the stone’s quality.

 

 

Brazilian Agate

Brazilian agates are some of the world’s most popular and sought-after agates. The agates are unique and stunning, with a deep red color and a swirled pattern.

The Brazilian agates sell for anywhere from $10 to $100 per specimen.

 

 

Green Moss Agate

Moss agate has several positive metaphysical properties, including attracting abundance and prosperity. However, the price of green moss agate depends on its unique green color. Green Moss agate is worth anywhere from $5 to $10 per carat.

 

Conclusion

Agate is a beautiful and unique gemstone. Its value can vary depending on the quality of the stone and the market conditions. Generally, agate is worth anywhere from $10 to $100 per carat, sometimes even more.

So, if you’re lucky enough to find a piece of agate, get it appraised by a professional to find its true worth.