CHARACTERISTICS OF AGATE

Agate is a common rock formation of silicon dioxide, or SiO2 , primarily consisting of banded chalcedony and quartz. It forms in a wide variety of types and colors and can be found all over the world. The stone is regularly formed through the alteration of volcanic and metamorphic rock. The creation of an agate starts when underground cavities are formed from the gases trapped within liquid volcanic material, forming vesicles. These cavities are then filled with silica-rich fluids from the volcanic material, and layers are deposited on the walls of the cavity while slowly working their way towards the center. The first layer deposited on the cavity walls is commonly known as the primary layer. Variations in the solution, or in the conditions of deposition, may cause a corresponding variation in the successive layers of mineralization. These variations result in bands of chalcedony, often alternating with layers of crystalline quartz, forming banded agate. Sometimes, the mineral solution is unable to fill the entirety of the cavity and will leave space for crystallization of macroscopic quartz growth. These tiny terminations of quartz are what give certain variations of agate a sparkly, or druzy, appearance.

HISTORY OF AGATE

Sometime around 300 BCE, or roughly 2,320 years ago, agate was given its name by Theophrastus, a Greek philosopher and naturalist, who discovered the stone along the shore line of the Dirillo River in Sicily. The ornamental use of agate dates back to Ancient Greece, where it has been used in the seal stones and amulets of protection for Greek warriors. Agate is one of the most common materials used in the art of hardstone carving, and has been found at a number of ancient sites, indicating its widespread use throughout the ancient world. It is a versatile gemstone that is often used in modern day jewelry making and is favored for its durability, with a Mohs scale hardness rating of 6.5–7. It is well known for its colorful, banded patterns and wide range of hues; including shades of red, orange, green, yellow, purple, pink and blue, as well as black and white. Agate is still used today for decorative displays, cabochons, beads, carvings, and tumbled and polished specimens of varying size and specific origin. Furthermore, during the turn of the 20th century, large quantities of agate that had been exported from Brazil were used in the ornamental crafting of ballasts for ships. Industrial uses of agate exploit its hardness, its ability to retain a highly polished surface finish, and its resistance to chemical degradation. It has also been used to make knife-edge bearings for laboratory balances and precision pendulums, and also to make mortars and pestles to crush and mix herbs, or sometimes chemicals.

METAPHYSICS OF AGATE

Metaphysically, agate is said to help in the process of spiritual growth and enlightenment, while creating a safe space in your life for patience and perseverance. While historically, it has been used as a powerful stone of protection and stability. Being a stone of the root and sacral chakras, it is a great facilitator of grounding and foundational energy, bringing its wearer the necessary stability to create personal change and well-being. Physically, agate is said to strengthen blood vessels and aid in the consistency of healthy blood flow throughout the body. It is also said to aid the body in digestive process and gastritis, as well as help maintain healthy function of the lymphatic system and pancreas.