Large agates raise practical questions, so here are the ones people usually send us about this piece.

How big is it, and what does it cost?

It is a 73.70 carat natural shajri aqeeq, a moss agate, priced at Rs. 3,380. That comes to about Rs. 46 per carat, a modest rate for the weight, which is typical for agate compared with precious stones.

Will it stand up to being worn?

Moss agate measures 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale. Set in a pendant it will be comfortable; in a ring, keep it away from hard knocks and wear it on the hand you use less. A custom silver setting can be discussed on WhatsApp.

Has it been treated?

Moss agate is usually left as it was found, though we always suggest asking. Write to +92 308 887 3888 with reference GS-000435 and we will share what we know. More pieces are listed under moss agate.

One practical note on size: a stone of this weight is best judged in the hand, so use Cash on Delivery to open the parcel and look at the polish and pattern before you pay. Seven days from delivery are open for a return if it does not suit you.

Before you choose, read our moss agate guide.

This particular stone

This listing is one natural moss agate, known in Urdu as Shajri Aqeeq, with a weight of 73.7 Carat. Its price is Rs. 3,380 — roughly Rs. 46 for each carat. Treatment: treatment not tested. Quote reference GS-000435 when you message us about it. The photographs show this exact stone, so what arrives at your door is the piece you chose on screen.

Above twelve carats you are into collector territory. Pieces this heavy are usually set as pendants or kept loose, and they are prized for the size of rough they came from. If you do set it, choose a bezel or a heavy claw to protect the edges.

On the Mohs scale moss agate rates 6.5 to 7. That is middle-of-the-road hardness: comfortable in pendants and earrings, and in rings worn with some care. Store it apart from harder stones so it does not pick up scratches, and wipe it with a damp cloth rather than scrubbing.

Whoever you buy moss agate from, make sure of three things: the stone is natural rather than lab-grown, glass or glass-filled; any treatment is stated in writing; and the weight quoted is the weight of the finished stone. We check every moss agate for those three points before it is listed, a certificate is available on request, and because you pay on delivery you can look at the stone — or have it tested — before any money changes hands.

We sell natural stones only and inspect each one before it is listed. Treatment for this stone: Treatment not tested. Certificate available on request. As general background (not a statement about this stone): Moss agate (shajri aqeeq) is usually untreated. Ask us on WhatsApp and we will tell you what we know about this exact stone; independent lab testing is available on request.

A certificate of authenticity is available on request for this stone, and independent laboratory testing can be arranged. Because you pay on delivery, you can also take the stone to a lab of your choice within the 7-day return window. Read more on our authenticity page.