Day 133: Don't be fooled by appearances! The "moss" in moss agate is not a bryophyte fossil. It is a mineral called pyrolusite (a manganese ore) which often forms dark-colored dendritic structures in quartz. Sometimes iron is also present and may appear as yellow or rusty bands.Some of the most beautiful specimens come from Montana, hence the popular name Montana moss. Agate is considered a semi-precious gem material. Quartz is a relatively hard stone (7 on the Mohs scale) and may be clear to opaque, and highly colored. One of the most plentiful minerals on Earth, it makes lovely jewelry!
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