Agate
6:19 PM | Author: Silverbirch Designs
Agate is a form of Chalcedony (pronounced Kal-sid'-nee).  It comes in nearly every color of the rainbow and shades between.  It is sometimes banded as well, forming concentric rings like a tree in varying thicknesses.  One form of agate is called "Heavenly Eye" because a solid color (usually brown or black) like an iris and pupil is surrounded by a ring or rings. 

Agate usually forms by filling a cavity inside a matrix (host) of other stone.  They are usually rounded and oblong, though some are perfectly round like marbles.  Often the larger nodules are hollow and will be lined with crystals.  These will also usually have the concentric bands alternating with the color.  Agate has a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, so it is fairly sturdy, yet soft enough to carve without too much difficulty.


In ancient times, Agate was highly valued and carried as a talisman or good luck charm.  It also was used to avert storms.  It is one of the oldest recorded gemstones.  Many items were carved of agate, including bowls.  There was a collection of bowls totaling three thousand that was kept by King Mithradates.
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Metaphysically, Agate is a stone for relaxation.  It brings a sense of calm and balance.  It is an aid for meditation and grounding. Agate gives vitality, and balances the Yin and Yang energies. It stimulates analytical abilities, awakens hidden latent talents and stabilizes the aura.  Agate helps one learn forgiveness and allows releasing of the bitterness that accompanies such situations.  The physical healing properties include strengthening the sight, helping with stress, and alleviating stomach upset. It also helps to prevent insomnia and gives pleasant dreams.  It is said to help treat disorders of the pancreas and improve circulation.


Different types of agate have additional properties.  If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to ask.  I'll do my best to answer them.  Next time I will talk about Amazonite.  :D
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