Agate

Agate marbles are handcrafted from carnelian agate. Vintage agate marbles can be recognized by minuscule hand-faceted marks on their surface, which reflect light flashes when the marble is turned. These facets may be subtle and challenging to spot.

These marbles display a range of colors, including black, gray, white, tan, brown, and red. They also feature various banding patterns, from plain to decorated with rings, loops, and V shapes, and come in sizes from peewee to over an inch in diameter.

Some agate marbles may contain crystals, which don’t necessarily enhance their value but can increase their appeal for certain collectors.

Larger agate marbles, exceeding one inch, are especially prized.

A unique category includes dyed agates, often found in unusual blue or green hues not typically seen in natural agate.

Be cautious of marbles made with a sphere machine; these lack the tiny surface facets characteristic of handmade agate marbles.