A lot is still left to be explored when it comes to gemstones. Most of our ornaments are still encrusted with diamonds, rubies, emeralds, etc., but there are other precious and semi-precious stones that can be used for similar purposes. One of them is Agate.
Agate is a semi-transparent or transparent chalcedony which is a microcrystalline quartz. It is mostly found in metamorphic rocks. There is no specific area where Agate can be found, but it is evitable that you may find this semi-precious stone in ancient lavas.
A wide variety of colours are available in agate gemstones. One can choose between brown, white, red, grey, pink, black, or yellow. These colours are formed due to the impurities and may alternate between the bands. Also, if the colour seems unimpressive remember that Agate is the most porous gem, it can readily accept any dye. Choose the one that suits the aesthetics of your space.
Agate is found in numerous types depending on its appearance, location or formation process. Here are a few common ones.
- Fortification agate – In this type of Agate, bands form crystalline layers following the shape of a cavity. When seen with the naked eye, it may resemble a fort.
- Water-line Agate – It is also known as onyx. This kind of Agate has parallel bands with silica deposits.
- Shadow Agate – These agates are named due to their appearance wherein light enters the rock but doesn’t reflect. It creates shadows of the band during a movement.
- Tube Agate – These agates grew around a mineral rod which eventually became hollow or were filled with silica. The tube-like projections are responsible for its name.
- Eye Agate – Here, most of the silica flows out of the cavity, leaving behind only some tiny droplets that blend to form the shape of an eye.
- Plume Agate – There are some deposits on these agates that appear before the chalcedony bands that trap them. These appear as ferns inside the Agate.
- Geode Agate – Silica-rich water flows out before the filling happens; hence there remains a hollow in this kind of Agate.
- Moss Agate – This Agate contains the entire universe inside. The mineral deposits resemble trees, flowers, ferns and all beautiful things.
- Seam Agate – These agates from inside cracks rather than round pockets.
These are only a few of the common types of agates. These can be found in almost a thousand forms and shapes.
Agate is a semi-precious gem that wears many hats. Its use is not only limited to making jewellery such as bracelets, earrings or finger rings but, also in other spectacular products.
Here is a list of some creations.
- Candle stand
- Collectible or a work of art for the décor
- Bathroom interiors
- Kitchen slab
- Side table
- Japa Mala or the sacred chain of beads for chanting a prayer
- Wall Art
- Sinks
- Chandeliers
- Coasters
Agate is a semi-precious stone that can be bought at an extremely affordable price depending on its type. You can always own one in your budget, so why wait? Grab the one that suits you and enjoy its healing properties.