Chalcedony

It is plain to consider
Neither cursory examination
Nor casual perusal can discern
Its inestimable value
Only incisive scrutiny
Shall contrive to divulge
Its priceless content

Marred, upon inspection
Its rough exterior
Deludes all but the few
Pitted with flaws its
Limestone surface has become
A perfect disguise; worn
To veil wonder within

Many the eager miner
Avidly seeks a royal lode
They grasp greedily at
Glimmering golden nuggets
Or strive instead
To unearth argentine veins
Of lustruous silver wealth

Pity then that ignoble rock
Of incalculable worth that
Remains hidded from all but
Sage prospectors, who alone
Are aware; within this geode gleam
Multifaceted amethyst aspects
Scintillant in crystalline beauty