Nanhong Agate

Nanhong Agate is a precious gemstone unique to China, famous for its distinctive red color. Quality Nanhong has vivid color and warm texture, known as the Red Jade and symbolizing good fortune in Chinese culture.

Mohs Hardness

6.5-7.0

Origin

Sichuan Liangshan, Yunnan Baoshan, Gansu Diebu

Market Price Range

Full-flesh brocade red: $140-$7K/g; Persimmon red: $28-$700/g; Cherry red: $14-$280/g

Detailed Description

Nanhong is classified by color into brocade red, persimmon red, cherry red, rose red, and flame red. By texture, it's divided into full-flesh (opaque) and frozen (semi-transparent). Quality evaluation focuses on color purity, flesh fullness, and texture fineness.

Identification Methods

Observe cinnabar dots: natural Nanhong shows dense cinnabar dot structure under strong light

Natural color transition: genuine pieces have natural color gradients; dyed ones look harsh

Warm texture: natural Nanhong feels warm to touch, not cold

Waxy quality: premium Nanhong has a unique waxy quality, distinct from ordinary agate's glassy feel

Market Information

After explosive growth from 2013-2016, the Nanhong market has entered a rational development phase. High-quality brocade red and persimmon red prices remain strong, while mid-to-low-end markets have adjusted.