An Introduction on Agate

Previously we have introduced some jewelries made of agate and some agate beads. In this blog we will make an introduction on agate including how they came into being and how to tell hem from other jewelleries.

Agate is a translucent variety of microcrystalline quartz. The agate usually display in concentric layers around the walls. These structures produce the banded patterns that are characteristic of many agates. If cut transversely, they will exhibit a succession of parallel lines and give a banded appearance. Such stones are known as banded agate, riband agate and striped agate. Agate may display many colors that are produced when groundwater of different compositions seeped into the cavity. This process gives many agates the interesting colors and patterns that can make pretty gemstones.

In ancient times, agate is one of the most common materials used widely in carving. Nowadays they are manufactured and made into cabochons, beads, small sculptures, and functional objects. Cabochons then will be used in earrings or pendants. They can be found in many jewelleries.

In terms of the spiritual function, agate is an excellent stone for rebalancing and harmonising body, mind and spirit. It cleanses and stabilizes the aura, eliminating and transforming negativity. Agate enhances mental function, improving concentration, perception and analytical abilities.

As we have mentioned before, agate is also a type of quartz. Thus sometimes agate and some other jewelleries will look alike. Here are some simple ways of recognizing it. You can put the stone in front of the light, if you can see through it, it is an agate. If not, it maybe a jasper.