Gemstone Knowledge of Agate

 

Gemstone -Agate

Agate Pendant

Family: Agate belongs to the Chalcedony family of gemstones

Country location: Agate is a gem that can be found mostly in Germany (the Idar-Oberstien region), Uruguay and Brazil. Smaller deposits can be found in India, China and the USA

Rock Type: Agate can be found in nodular masses which occur in fossilized wood or from volcanic lava.  This location is unique to Agate and Amber

Hardness:  Agate’s harness measures at 7- making it a sturdy and decorative gem

Popular cuts: Agate is mostly found using the Cabochon cut for rings, the Cameo cut for brooches and the Polished Cut for accentuating the distinctive angular, wavy or concentric banding

Colour: Agate’s stunning selection of colours includes Teal, Aqua, Pearlescent White, Grey, Black, Brown and Orange

Lustre: Agate’s lustre is vitreous (glass like appearance)

History: Agate has a fascinating history.  It was used by the Babylonians to make weapons to protect their property It was also used to determine royal blood in the Byzantine Empire.  The most popular and well known carver of Agate is the Idar Oberstein region in Germany, who specializes in Agate bowls

Folklore: Agate has a fabulous folklore history.  The Persians believe Agate divert storms Hindu’s believe Agate is key in enabling children to balance, walk and overcome fears.  Modernists believe Agate promotes pleasant dreams, mellow constitution and agreements as well as preventing insomnia and conflict

Birthstone: Agate is the alternative birthstone of May

Special Care: Agates should be kept out of sunlight to prevent colour fade.  Agate should be cleaned using soapy water and a soft cloth

Extra Info: The vivid varieties of Agate include Blue Lace Agate, Crazy Lace Agate and Rainbow Agate

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