What Is Agate?
Agates are semi-precious gemstones (a variety of chalcedony) that were first discovered near modern day Sicily. The name AGATE comes from the river Achates, now known as the Dirillo River. Agate was first discovered in the Dirillo River sometime between the 4th and 3rd centuries BC.
Does Agate Have Healing Benefits?
Agate is believed to cleanse and stabilize ones aura by eliminating and transforming negativity. Agate is also thought to improve concentration and enhance mental function. It is generally accepted that wearing agate can soothe and calm, heal anger or tension and can create a sense of security and safety.
How Is Agate Formed?
Agates naturally develop in rocks, when an empty pocket is filled with micro-crystals and form concentric bands or other patterns. Agates develop as secondary deposits in hollow cavities known as vesicles. When the hollow cavities and seams are filled with fluid concentrated with dissolved and suspended quartz molecules (known as silica), the fluid becomes very concentrated and turns into a gelatin like substance. Over time, the silica molecules form miniature fibrous micro-crystals that attach to the sides of the cavity. During this process, other mineral impurities that were formed when the cavities were filling begin to form intervening and contrasting bands. Agate colors vary because the arrangement of the micro-crystals are affected by changes in pressure, temperature, and mineral content during the formation process.