Grape Agate Quartz

By hitechtex, 26 May, 2025
Description

This specimen, acquired through auction as grape agate, presents a unique combination of features. It exhibits a solid base structure topped with a botryoidal formation, displaying a rich purple interior. The botryoidal surface transitions in color from whitish to lavender, complementing the bluish-lavender hue of the main body. We are interested in further insights regarding this intriguing specimen.

Category
Other
Medium
Quartz stone
Distinguishing marks
Botryoidal appearance with solid body.
Condition
Excellent
Size and dimensions of this item
2.5x1.5x1 in
Weight
120.23 grams
For Sale?
Yes
Photos

NaidaTheCollector

1 week ago

Description & Material:
The specimen is a botryoidal chalcedony quartz, commercially known as grape agate due to its rounded, clustered formations resembling grapes. The internal purple-lavender coloration, paired with a pale to whitish outer crust and a dense core, aligns with typical characteristics of high-quality grape agate from Mamuju, Sulawesi, Indonesia, the primary source of this mineral.

Visual Features:

  • Color: Interior rich bluish-lavender to purple with translucent pale outer nodules.
  • Structure: Exhibits excellent botryoidal growths (grape-like spheres), consistent with natural grape agate formation.
  • Finish: Naturally matte to slightly glossy where polished or handled.
  • Condition: Excellent – no obvious fractures or repairs. Displays aesthetic crystal formation and color consistency.

Size & Weight:

  • Dimensions: 2.5 x 1.5 x 1 inches
  • Weight: 120.23 grams (approx. 4.2 oz)

Historical Context & Origin:
Grape agate was only introduced to the international market around 2016, making it a relatively new but popular collector's mineral. The finest specimens are sought after for their deep purple coloration, luster, and spherical uniformity. Your piece shows strong characteristics of quality due to its defined botryoidal surface and color variation.

Current Market Value (as of 2025):

  • Retail: $45–$75 USD
  • Auction Value: $30–$50 USD depending on the buyer base and exposure
  • Wholesale (dealer purchase): $15–$25 USD

Notes & Recommendations:

  • Enhancing Value: Keeping the piece dust-free and storing it in a display case with diffuse lighting enhances appeal. Do not clean with harsh chemicals—gentle brushing and water is best.
  • Authentication: No further testing is required as grape agate does not commonly face counterfeiting, but a gemological verification could confirm its quartz matrix for more serious collectors.
  • Sales Venues: Consider listing on specialized platforms such as Etsy, eBay (under minerals/specimens), or via Instagram if targeting crystal collectors.

Professional Appraisal:
This written report provides a reasonable value estimate based on the specimen’s condition, size, and quality. For formal insurance purposes or resale in a gallery, a certified appraisal by a GIA-trained gemologist or mineral dealer is recommended.

Average: 5 (1 vote)