In contrast to black onyx, a kind of cryptocrystalline quartz, black agate often has a waxy shine and is translucent. Amazing Black Agate Jewelry is mined from volcanic ash and comes from Brazil, India, Africa, the USA, Uruguay, and Madagascar, among other places in the world. Black agate is known as wonderful natural banding, from opaque black to translucent grey. Microcrystalline Quartz has layers from this band, also it created a unique and visually striking appearance.