Another favorite natural gemstone that I work with are Agates; giving me much inspiration to create. A common, semiprecious type 
of chalcedony, Agate is the compact, microcrystalline variety of quartz. In general, its physical properties are those of quartz. Most agates form in cavities in ancient lavas or other extrusive igneous rocks. They are characterized for the most part by color bands in a concentric form, and less often by moss-like inclusion (Moss Agate). The characteristic bands usually follow the outline of the cavity win which the mineral has formed. The band colors are determined by the differing impurities present, and occur in shades of white, yellow, grey, pale blue, brown, pink, red, or black. Much of the sliced agate offered on the market in particularly bright colors is dyed or stained to enhance the natural color, an easy process because of its porous nature. It is found in former volcanic regions such as Black Forest, Saxony, Germany; Brazil, Uruguay, Mexico, United States, and
Indian peninsula.History & Legend
Historically, the name Agate is derived from the river Achates in Sicily. The Greek philosopher Theophrastrus described this gem as early as 300 b.c. and in Byzantium people already knew how to enhance the color of agate by burning.
Agates are among the oldest good luck and healing of natural gemstones. Because of its layered structure, agate was often used for the cameo engraving of heads and coats of arms against deeper underlying color.
Agates enable the wearer to choose between true friends and false ones. It is said to avert storms and lightening, protect children from danger, bring prosperity and prevent miscarriages. Traditional properties include balancing physical-emotional-
intellectual and spiritual energies, perceptiveness, strength, inspiration, and awakening talents within the wearer. Red agates are related to the solar plexus chakra; blue agates are associated with the throat chakra. Its star sign is for Taurus and Capricorns to sensitize and strengthen willpower. Agates should be worn directly on the skin and cleansed once a month under warm running water.*Information reprinted from various rock, mineral and gemstone books.
