Interesting Facts on the Beauty and Spirituality of Agates

ShoppingFashion / Style

  • Author Larry Johnson
  • Published December 13, 2010
  • Word count 530

Agates are commonly found in several countries the world over. In fact, it would be difficult to identify a country on the world map that does not have at least one mine of this stone. The abundance of agate can be attributed to the main mineral that forms agate. It largely consists of SiO2. Given the fact that SiO2 is the most prolific mineral on the face of the earth, the abundance of agates is not illogical. In geological history, i.e. many million years ago, water dissolved silicon dioxide in rock formations and volcanic ash on the face of the earth. As the water slowly evaporated the silicon dioxide was left behind as a precipitate. Under high heat and force the solid residue was fused together and was changed to agates that we find today. The principal factor that gives agates their varied patterns is that the silicon dioxide was deposited in distinct layers. Each layer contained a variety of secondary compounds, some of which modified the properties of the primary mineral – silica. Often, the silica solution included organic materials such as branches. over the course of time, the organic matter decomposed to be replaced with inorganic minerals, leading to the generation of petrified wood. Agates typically have a hardness of around 7 on the Mohs scale. The unit weight as compared to that of water of agates varies between 2.6 and 2.7.

Believers of metaphysics state that agates possess many benefits. Most commonly, agates are claimed to aid in balancing energy, provide courage to the wearer, add emotional stability, help the healing process, and assist with the overall psychological health and protection of the person. Kids more than most can benefit from its powers. This is the reason why this stone is generally is an excellent stone for ornaments. Historically, this stone has symbolized strength. Soldiers adorned their battle suit with agates for they believed that agate helped them in battle. Artists and intellects also have faith in the power of agates because they are known to get the juices of creativity flowing and broaden the mind. These stones are said to cleanse the aura by mitigating undesirable emotions. Agates are also believed build family ties, and helping faith in marriage.

There are many species of agates found on the earth’s surface. Within the agate family however, certain species of agates are more popular than others. Botswana agates are known for striking colors and colorful layering. This form of agates are often used in contemporary jewelry. Fire agates from North and Central America are also are popular with costume jewelry fans. These stones are brownish-orange in color because of the presence of ferrous compounds within the silicon dioxide matrix.

Within the ranks of contemporary fashion jewelry designers, agates have ascended in importance because of the numerous patterns and colors in which they can be found, and because they are inexpensive. Because of their hardness, most agates can be facet cut and polished with relative ease. Brightly colored specimens of agates are mounted in silver or copper settings to create beautiful silver pendants. Specimens are typically cut as cabochons. Cabs can be elongated, as needed by the the designer’s call.

The author is a geo-professional with extensive knowledge on jewelry such as sterling silver turquoise pendants and brooches. The author writes technical essays on gemstone jewelry.

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