banded gemstone crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Struggling with the clue "banded gemstone"? You've come to the right place! Below you'll find all possible answers, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to guide you to the perfect solution for your crossword puzzle.
Solutions for "banded gemstone crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
ONYX: A type of chalcedony with parallel bands of colors, typically white and black or white and brown.
5 Letters
AGATE: A common variety of chalcedony characterized by its fineness of grain and often distinct, concentric bands of color.
8 Letters
SARDONYX: A specific variety of onyx where the bands are sard (reddish-brown) and white, historically popular for cameos.
More About "banded gemstone crossword clue"
Banded gemstones are a fascinating category in geology and also a frequent feature in crossword puzzles. The most well-known example is agate, famous for its intricate, often concentric, bands of various colors. These bands are formed by the rhythmic deposition of silica as water seeps through volcanic rock cavities, creating unique patterns.
Beyond agate, other notable banded gemstones include onyx and sardonyx. While agate's bands can be curved and highly varied, onyx is characterized by its parallel bands, often in contrasting colors like black and white. Sardonyx is a specific variety of onyx with reddish-brown (sard) and white bands, highly prized in ancient times for carving intaglios and cameos.
When you encounter a "banded gemstone" clue, consider the typical answers provided here, as they represent the most common and recognizable examples in the gemstone world, making them perfect fits for crossword compilers looking for widely understood terms.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Look at surrounding letters: Even if you don't immediately know the answer to "banded gemstone," nearby solved letters can quickly narrow down the possibilities between AGATE, ONYX, or SARDONYX.
- Consider common crossword patterns: Shorter answers like AGATE and ONYX are very common, while longer words like SARDONYX might appear in more challenging or larger grids.
- Think synonyms for "banded": Sometimes the clue might use a synonym like "striped" or "layered" gemstone. Knowing the primary examples of banded gemstones will still lead you to the correct answer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common answer for 'banded gemstone' in crosswords?
The most frequently appearing answer for 'banded gemstone' in crossword puzzles is AGATE, due to its widespread recognition as a gemstone defined by its distinctive banding.
Are all gemstones with stripes considered 'banded gemstones'?
While many gemstones can exhibit striations or patterns, the term 'banded gemstone' specifically refers to those like agate, onyx, or sardonyx, where the color variations form distinct, parallel, or concentric bands due to their formation process. Other striped stones might not fit the precise definition used in crosswords unless their banding is a defining characteristic.
How can I identify if a crossword clue refers to a banded gemstone?
Look for keywords like 'banded,' 'striped,' 'layered,' or 'streaked' in the clue. Clues might also hint at specific types of agate or onyx. If you have some letters, try common answers like AGATE, ONYX, or SARDONYX, which are prime examples of banded gemstones.