Agate – Asni, Morocco

Agates from Morocco come from several local deposits, often linked to ancient volcanic activity. The volcanic rocks originally contained gas cavities that were gradually filled with silicate solutions. The resulting chalcedony layers may also contain small inclusions of iron or other minerals that give the agates their characteristic red, brown or orange hues.

Moroccan agates are characterised by a remarkable spectrum of colours, often dominated by warm tones ranging from deep red to brownish to orange. Thin whitish or grey lines may appear between the layers, creating elegant striations and sometimes so-called 'ochre' structures. Some pieces have tiny cavities filled with quartz or amethyst crystals, which increase the attractiveness of the stone when cut and polished.

Compared to Brazilian agates, which often offer large geodes with finer concentric layers, Moroccan agates have a slightly coarser texture and less regular bands. However, their colour palette is often more vibrant, with an emphasis on warmer and earthier tones. While agates from Mexico may have strong contrasting lines and pastel shades, Moroccan specimens often combine rich reddish-brown variations with white or grey waves.

Moroccan agates are quite readily available on world markets, with a wide range of both raw mounds and already worked and polished pieces. Their prices are in the affordable range, but exceptional specimens with distinctive designs or cavity-filled crystals can be priced considerably higher.