Agate vs. Geode: Differences, Similarities, and Properties

The natural world is amazing, and there are so many different wonders to be found amongst Mother Nature. Two of these wonders are Agate and Geode crystals. 

Both Agate and Geode crystals are formed over thousands of years and are brilliant pieces for both rock collectors and spiritualists alike. 

Are Agate and Geode the same? How is Agate different from Geode? Do they have any similarities?

Agate and Geodes are similar but not the same. Let’s look at the differences between Agate and Geode crystals and what you need to know to make the most out of your crystal collection!

What Are Agate Crystals?

Agate refers to a rock formation. It is a type of Chalcedony that is made up of Quartz and other minerals. They have distinctive multicolor bands and are formed within preexisting rocks thousands of years ago. 

Agates have been discovered around the world and are mostly found in cavities of volcanic rocks. These rocks are formed during the cooling of lava or magma. After the rock has solidified, water that carries minerals enters the rock, and layers are created within the rock. 

The bands that are found within Agates are the result of impurities of other minerals. These traces create intriguing and unique swirls and markings within the stone. 

There is a range of types of Agate crystals, from delicate Lace Agate to the more spotty Moss Agate. When the rock is cut, the bands and patterns are displayed. 

What Are Geodes?

Geodes are formed within volcanic and sedimentary rocks. Over time, cavities in these rocks are filled with crystals that enter through water. Minerals cling to the walls of the cavity of the rock and form inward, creating clusters of crystals within the rock. Geodes have a layer of chalcedony, with crystals forming on top and working inward. 

Geodes usually contain varieties of Quartz within them but can have a range of other gemstones. Pyrite, Hematite, and Aragonite Geodes have been found.

4 Similarities Between Agate and Geode

Both Agates and Geodes are amazing natural phenomena. As you can see, there is a range of similarities between these two crystals! Let’s break their similarities down to understand their connection. 

Formation

One of the key similarities between Agates and Geodes is how they are formed. Both develop in cavities within rocks. Running water pulls minerals through the rocks, which are then crystallized. 

Colors 

Both Agate and Geodes come in a range of stunning colors. From deep purples to intense blues, there are so many different colors found within Agates and Geodes. 

Minerals 

Chalcedony is a key mineral in both Agates and Geodes. It forms on the walls of the stone in Geodes, allowing other crystals to grow. In Agates, it is the main mineral that creates the structure and contains other impurities that affect its appearance. 

Hardness

Both Geode and Agates are rated quite hard on the Mohs Hardness Scale. Both are rated around 6 or 7, with some Geodes rated as high as 7.5.

9 Differences Between Geode and Agate

Now let’s look at the key differences between Geodes and Agates, including geological and metaphysical differences. 

Name 

When it comes to understanding the distinction between Geodes and Agates, it is important to be aware of what their names refer to. 

The term Geode refers to a specific form of the mineral. It is used to describe the formation of crystals within rocks and can refer to a range of crystals in that form. Agate, on the other hand, refers to a specific type of mineral. This mineral is a variety of Chalcedony with impurities within that create the bands. 

Hollowness

Geodes and Agates are formed in slightly different ways, and this means that their structure is different. Because Geodes are firstly formed from the walls of the cavity and work inward, they are usually hollow on the inside. 

Agates are solid, with the Chalcedony fully occupying the cavity. 

Crystal Size

Because of their formation, Agates and Geodes have different crystal sizes. Agates are cryptocrystalline, which means you cannot see the crystal structure without magnifying them. Geodes, on the other hand, form macro crystals. This means you can see the structure of the crystals with the naked eye. 

Patterns 

Both Geodes and Agates are displayed when cut open. However, the patterns discovered within are different. Agates are often symmetrical, with bands and markings within the stone. Geodes, on the other hand, are more irregular with a range of crystals forming unique patterns. 

Inclusions

The famous colorful banded look of Agate crystals is from inclusions of other minerals. All Agate specimens have these inclusions, which create their colors. 

Geodes can have impurities and inclusions in the stone, which is not as common as Agates. Agates need their impurities to create their patterns and colors. 

Rocks 

Geodes and Agates are often found in different types of rocks. You will usually find Geodes in limestones, whereas Agates usually form in volcanic or sedimentary rocks. 

Weight

Geodes tend to be heavier, whereas Agates are lighter stones. When the stone is unbroken, holding it in your hand and feeling its weight will give you clues regarding if it is a Geode or Agate.

Astrology 

Agates and Geodes have a few key differences when it comes to astrology. Agates are generally governed by the Moon and associated with the Gemini and Virgo Zodiac signs. 

Geodes differ regarding astrology because they are associated with a wider range of planets and Zodiac signs. Remember how we learned that the name Geode refers to a specific form of crystal and not a type of crystal?

This means that their Zodiac and planetary alignments depend on the gemstone that is found within the Geode. For example, a Celestite Geode would connect with the planets Neptune and Venus and suit those with the star signs Gemini, Libra, and Taurus. 

Metaphysical Properties

There are many metaphysical and spiritual differences between Agates and Geodes. Agates are fantastic cleansing stones that work to rebalance and harmonize emotions. They transform negative energy and bring forth feelings of safety and security. 

The metaphysical properties of Geodes, on the other hand, depending on what crystal the Geodes are made out of. For example, a Citrine Geode will bring forth the energy of courage and confidence. 

When it comes to the chakras, Agates are said to connect with the Third Eye and Crown, boosting spiritual awareness and enlightenment. 

The chakra that Geodes connect with depends on the crystal. Let’s take a look at the common varieties of Geodes and their associated chakras: 

• Amethyst Geode: Third Eye 
• Citrine Geode: Sacral and Solar Plexus 
• Clear Quartz Geode: Crown
• Celestite Geode: Throat and Third Eye
• Calcite Geode: Solar Plexus 

How To Identify Agate From Geode?

As we can see, there are many differences between Agate and Geode, and we can use what we have learned to tell them apart. 

If the rock is unopened, you can still find clues regarding if it is an Agate or Geode. Geodes will feel lighter than Agates, and there may be inclusions of color on the Agate rocks. Once the rock is opened, it will be clearer if the specimen is an Agate or Geode. Examine the size of the crystals in the rock and the patterns. 

If there is confusion, the specimen you have might be a Thunderegg. Thudereggs are similar to Geodes and often get named as such, yet Thudereggs are a distinct variety of Agate, found filled with Chalcedony and deposits of other minerals and crystals, such as Quartz or Opal. They form specifically within rhyolitic volcanic ash layers and are usually around the size of a tennis ball. 

Agate crystals may form in the Thunderegg structure, and a Thunderegg may be called a Geode if it is hollow inside. 

Final Verdict: Agate vs. Geode

These two beautiful, natural phenomena have intrigued and inspired people for years. Formed over thousands of years, both Agates and Geodes are unique forms of crystals that can be used for metaphysical and spiritual purposes. 

Agates are a type of crystal that includes Chalcedony with other mineral inclusions. It forms in bands of colors and has a small crystal structure. The name Geode, on the other hand, refers to the formation of crystals within a rock. Many crystals may form in this way and always have a large crystal structure.