Overview
A group of five hand-polished semi-precious stone slabs, including banded agate and translucent chalcedony. These pieces were specifically prepared for jewelry making, featuring pre-drilled holes for suspension as pendants.
Preliminary identification
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Overview
A group of five hand-polished semi-precious stone slabs, including banded agate and translucent chalcedony. These pieces were specifically prepared for jewelry making, featuring pre-drilled holes for suspension as pendants.
Story
Volcanic bubbles trapped gas millions of years ago, creating the hollows where these crystals grew. 1970s hobbyists transformed these raw earth-treasures into wearable art. Each slice is a unique fingerprint of the planet.
Maker / Origin
While the specific lapidary artist is unknown, these represent the 'Rockhound' movement that peaked in the mid-20th century. Amateur and professional stone-cutters used diamond saws and tumbling grit to reveal the hidden geometry inside seemingly ordinary river stones and desert nodules.
Condition & Value
The stones appear well-polished with no major fractures visible. The pre-drilled holes are clean, though the green specimen shows some surface scuffing. Good condition for lapidary roughs. Individual polished agate pendants of this size typically sell for $5–$15 each at gem shows or online marketplaces like Etsy.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.