Born of ancient lava
AGATE
Agate Origin & Physical Properties
Agate is a form of chalcedony with bands of micro granular quartz. Varieties of Agate are found in numerous localities around the world, occurring in both opaque banded rock and highly translucent crystal. Agates formed within ancient lava and volcanic rock as silica-rich material formed in layers of empty cavities and veins.
Many Agates are found has hollow geodes, since deposition did not completely fill the cavity where the stone formed. Often the center consists of drusy quartz, growing into the empty space at the center. Some Agates form with fossilized shells and other ancient mollusks.
Agate was an important stone since at least the Neolithic times, with many artifacts, amulets and specimens found from Babylon, ancient Greek and Egyptian civilizations.
Some notable agates include Blue lace Agate, Moss Agate, Fire Agate, Botswana Pink, Plume Agate & Dendritic Agate.
| Category | Properties |
|---|---|
| Chemical Composition | SiO2 |
| Mohs Hardness | 6.5 - 7 |
| Luster | Waxy |
| Specific Gravity | 2.58 - 2.64 |
| Refractive Index | 1.53 - 1.54 |
| Fluorescence | |
| Crystal System | Rhombohedral, Microcrystalline |
| Inclusions | tendrils of manganese & iron, crystalline quartz, fossilized organic matter |
| Color | forms in all colors from transparent crystals to banded opaque stones |
| Origin | Common throughout the world. Prized localities include Mexico, U.S.A. , Brazil, Uruguay, India |
| Chakra | varies depending on color, but all Agates are excellent for Sacral Chakra & grounding |
| Zodiac | Not a traditional birth stone but associated with Gemini |
| Element | Earth, & Fire for stones with red and golden colors like Fire Agate |
| Mental & Emotional Effects | Strengthen willpower, provides protection & grounding |
| Physical Effects | Physical protection, calming & good aid for restful sleep |
Agate Healing & Metaphysical Properties
Although the healing properties of Agate varies depending on the variety, all agates are regarded as empowering and protective. They are excellent stones for improving focus and mental pursuits. They can help to improve memory, increase stamina and concentration. Agate is grounding and helps approach situations with a level head.
Ancient legends speak of Agate as a stone that was a guardian against dangers. It protected sailors at sea and helped to transcend earthly obstacles. Agate was used as a tonic for sleep. It is a stone of longevity, good health and encourages you to be confident and stand in your power!
Agate History & Mythology
Agate was named by Theophrastus, a Greek philosopher and naturalist, when he found stones along the river Achates in Sicily in the 4th century B.C. The Egyptians gathered agates along the same river at least 3500 years ago. In ancient cultures throughout history, Agate has been carved into decorative and ceremonial objects. A chalice made during the times of Jesus, and what many consider to be the holy grail, was carved from two pieces of Agate.
The Greek king Mithridate had a collection of thousands of vases carved in Agate. In Greek mythology, agate is associated with the earth goddess of Gaia and the goddess of night, Nyx. Romans would powder agate and drink it with water as an anti-venom from snakebites.
Perhaps the most famous ancient artifact carved from Agate is the ‘Pylos Combat Agate’, unearthed from a tomb discovered on the coast of Peloponnese in Greece. The tomb had been left undisturbed for 3500 years. The details of the carving are depicted astonishing, depicting Heracles in combat on a stone that is only 37 mm in length! Archeologists cannot understand how such a detailed carving was executed without the help of a magnification glass which had not yet been invented.