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2.9" Colorful Polished Marcasite Agate Sphere - Indonesia
This is a 2.9" wide polished sphere made from Indonesian marcasite agate, collected in Western Java, Indonesia. It has been shaped and flawlessly polished to a glossy finish, and features beautiful formations of lustrous marcasite that are encapsulated in colorful agate. There are several quartz and chalcedony encrusted pockets scattered throughout the sphere.
Comes with an acrylic ring display stand.
Comes with an acrylic ring display stand.
About Marcasite Agate
Marcasite agate is a striking variety of agate that contains brilliant metallic marcasite inclusions embedded within its translucent or banded quartz. These golden to silvery crystalline clusters often appear as radiating sprays, glittery flakes, or intricate geometric patterns suspended inside the agate, creating a dramatic contrast between the reflective metal and the softer chalcedony.
Marcasite itself is an iron sulfide mineral (FeS₂)—chemically identical to pyrite but crystallizing in a different, less stable orthorhombic structure. This gives marcasite its signature pale brass or silvery-gold color and its tendency to form delicate, bladed, or spear-shaped crystals. While pyrite usually appears brassy and chunky, marcasite is lighter in color and commonly forms more intricate, feathery patterns.
In marcasite agate, these crystals form when iron-rich fluids infiltrate silica-filled cavities and both minerals crystallize together. The result is a uniquely dynamic gemstone combining the durability and banding of agate with the natural sparkle of marcasite. Highly prized by collectors and lapidaries alike, the finest material is found in Indonesia—particularly in West Java—where nodules often reveal dramatic metallic landscapes sealed within vibrant, patterned chalcedony.
Marcasite agate is a striking variety of agate that contains brilliant metallic marcasite inclusions embedded within its translucent or banded quartz. These golden to silvery crystalline clusters often appear as radiating sprays, glittery flakes, or intricate geometric patterns suspended inside the agate, creating a dramatic contrast between the reflective metal and the softer chalcedony.
Marcasite itself is an iron sulfide mineral (FeS₂)—chemically identical to pyrite but crystallizing in a different, less stable orthorhombic structure. This gives marcasite its signature pale brass or silvery-gold color and its tendency to form delicate, bladed, or spear-shaped crystals. While pyrite usually appears brassy and chunky, marcasite is lighter in color and commonly forms more intricate, feathery patterns.
In marcasite agate, these crystals form when iron-rich fluids infiltrate silica-filled cavities and both minerals crystallize together. The result is a uniquely dynamic gemstone combining the durability and banding of agate with the natural sparkle of marcasite. Highly prized by collectors and lapidaries alike, the finest material is found in Indonesia—particularly in West Java—where nodules often reveal dramatic metallic landscapes sealed within vibrant, patterned chalcedony.
$195
SPECIES
Chalcedony var. Agate & Marcasite
LOCATION
Sumatra, Indonesia
SIZE
2.9" diameter
CATEGORY
SUB CATEGORY
ITEM
#330230
