Agate mineral: photos, properties and description
Agate mineral photo
In mineralogy, agate is characterized as an aggregate of chalcedony, a translucent variety of quartz. This means that the stone is formed by layering fibers of one mineral rock.
Thanks to this natural phenomenon, the gem has many varieties. They surprise and inspire stone craftsmen with their color palette, diversity and uniqueness of cut patterns.
In addition to layered and banded gems (rainbow), jewelers include other types of translucent quartz here. They usually contain beautiful inclusions that form an unusual pattern. These are star agate, moss agate (dendritic agate), and bastion agate.
It is the alternation of layers of different shades that gives the mineral its special color. Usually it is white and blue-gray. But the stone also has an abundance of other colors.
And if nature mixed yellow, black, red, brown and other paints with white layers, then this type of agate has its own separate name (“swallowbird”, “owl’s eye”, onyx, porcelain, etc.).
All of them, as a rule, are opaque; only the edges, which have a smaller thickness after processing, can be seen through.
And each type of agate acquires an attractive “glassy” shine after polishing. It is not only the beauty of the gem that has made it a popular ornamental mineral.
The properties of the stone - agate is hard, durable, and resistant to acids - are used to advantage by jewelers, stone cutters, and decorators, skillfully combining fancy natural motifs.
Agate Botswana: description and main features
Magic agate Botswana for magical rituals.
The stone is a translucent gem of gray and pink shades with stripes that create unusual patterns. Due to its characteristic color, the mineral is also called the “stone of dawn.” It has a layered structure and a characteristic shine. Unlike other agates, it is often not processed, but only lightly polished.
Place of Birth
The main deposits of the mineral are located in Africa, in the Kalahari Desert in the Republic of Botswana. This is where the gem took its name. Stones of similar colors are mined in Madagascar, the Netherlands, Mexico, and Scotland.
Areas of use
Botswana agate is used to make:
- jewelry in the form of beads, bracelets, inserts in earrings, brooches, rings, pendants;
- home decor: figurines, vases, decanters and other products.
The gem is also used as an amulet that can protect its owner from negative energy, have a healing effect, and change life for the better.
Agate deposit
Agate deposits are large-scale, the stone is found both in sedimentary natural rocks and in igneous, volcanic rocks. The Urals in Russia, the Deccan Plateau in India, Janova Dolina in Ukraine, and Rhineland-Palatinate in Germany contain large deposits of agate. The mineral is also common in Crimea, Tajikistan, Armenia, Uruguay, and Brazil.
How to distinguish real agate from a fake
There are several ways to check the authenticity of a mineral:
- If you scratch Botswana agate with a needle, there will be no crack left on the stone. If the seller is competent enough and confident in his products, then such a test can be done right in the store.
- It will remain cold in Botswana's hands for a long time. Plastic or glass will heat up quickly.
- Any Botswana has several shades at once, so if you come across an absolutely monochromatic stone, it is a fake.
- Place the mineral in water overnight. If it does not fade or lose its shine, then it is a sample of natural origin.
An example of a real mineral in the video:
Varieties of agate: photos with names and descriptions
Frost Agate
Frost agate stone
The gray-white mineral got its name due to the intricate pattern on the cut of the stone, like on windows after a severe frost.
Rainbow agate
Rainbow agate stone
Found under the name iridescent. This unusual gem contains thin layers of chalcedony capable of splitting light into spectral rays.
This is a multi-colored stone that can change its palette under the influence of light.
Brazilian agate
Brazilian agate stone
received its name from the place of extraction. A beautiful almond-shaped mineral of grey-blue color. The size does not exceed 10 cm in length.
Jewelers sometimes tint Brazilian agate to give it richness and richness.
It is this variety that, after staining, retains its texture perfectly and the pattern is clearly visible.
Royal agate
Royal agate stone
is known as obsidian. A beautiful mineral with a spotted color.
The combinations can be very different, from black and dark gray to snow-white and rainbow layers and splashes.
Timan agate
Timan agate stone,
like Brazilian agate, is named after its deposit. It is mined in the Timansky Ridge highlands in Russia.
It is distinguished by large samples (up to 20 cm) and a variety of shapes (pear-shaped stones, round, cone-shaped).
Cutting them off makes it possible to admire the landscape pattern of a mountain landscape or gray-blue combinations of stripes, reminiscent of the atmosphere of white nights.
And if you’re lucky, you can find a Timan gem with a lilac glow; it is associated with the northern lights.
Eye agate
Ocellated agate stone
Sometimes jewelers and gemologists say “ocellited”, “owl’s eye”, “Aleppo stone”, which does not change the essence.
This is one of the most beautiful types of gem. The section shows how the concentric layers form a circle similar to the eye.
Agat dzi
Agate dzi stone
This is the name given to the gem after engraving a special design for the famous Tibetan beads.
Eyes, squares, stripes, wavy lines are artificially applied and symbolize ritual signs.
The teachings of Dzi are older than Buddhism and are associated with shamanism. Therefore, beads made from such agate carry magical powers.
Mining and stone processing
The mineral was discovered in 1971 near the town of Babanong in Botswana. Nowadays, the main place of production is the Kalahari Desert. In addition, minerals can be found in Holland, Scotland, Mexico, and the island of Madagascar. Botswana agate is in high demand among collectors as it is considered a rare mineral.
Since ancient times, stone cutters have used the special properties of Botswana in their work. The gems were soaked in a copper solution and then calcined over a fire. Botswana soaks well, so specimens in black, red, green and brown shades are artificially obtained from it.
A modern processing method is to irradiate the stone with high-energy particles.
Agate stone in history and culture
Agate natural stone photo
Archaeological finds of many products made from this gem confirm its ancient origin. There is evidence that stone has been decorating the life and appearance of people since the Neolithic era. And mysterious legends that have come down from different cultures only enhance the charisma of the gem.
According to one of them, the heavenly light eagle, a symbol of universal goodness, died in a battle with evil spirits. And falling to the ground, it turned into a large beautiful stone. Thus, a fair eye was buried deep in the earth, keeping order and protecting people. This meaning of the agate stone has been preserved to this day.
In Roman mythology, this mineral is nothing more than the petrified tears of the deity Pluto, the ruler of active volcanoes. There are many such legends, and it must be admitted that the stone is deservedly glorified. Largely due to its popularity and accessibility, jewelry making developed at that time.
Mesopotamian craftsmen created intaglios - special decorations similar to cameos. Their peculiarity is that the relief was created not convex, but in-depth. This made it possible to use intaglios as personal seals.
Alexander the Great himself was a fan of the gem; he contributed to the flourishing of ornamental craftsmanship in the 4th century. BC. And in Syracuse, the interiors of famous Sicilian palaces dating back to the 3rd century were decorated with stone. BC.
The real agate boom began in the 11th-13th centuries. The stone carvers D. Pisano and the Vittorio brothers, who worked at this time, left real masterpieces from the mineral agate.
Agate decoration
These are mostly skillfully hand-made cameo gems. The original collection of such jewelry was collected by Catherine II. She called her passion “kamo disease” and bought unique items in Paris.
So in 1787, the family collection of gems of the Duke of Orleans was acquired. Today this is the basis of the real agate treasury of the Hermitage. It was also supplemented by the creations of the famous Faberge.
In addition to intaglio seals, he carved buckles, wonderful bottles, boxes and other utensils from stone. In the highest circles, even a fashion for agate jewelry began, to which many great people succumbed, among them Byron, Napoleon, Pushkin.
Modern man is also pleased not only with the usual accessories and jewelry made from this gem. Brown agate, yellow and other natural shades of stone are used to create abstract paintings from landscape cuts of agate.
Beautiful panels made of semi-precious chips decorate exquisite interiors. And, perhaps, after thousands of years, these agate creations will give descendants the opportunity to enjoy the mysterious world of unusual lines and shapes of a stone miracle.
Magical properties of agate
Red agate stone
For different peoples, the meaning of the agate stone was in one way or another connected with prosperity.
Among the Egyptians, the gem symbolized the generosity and fertility of the earth, among the Hindus it was the path to enrichment, and in Medieval Europe it symbolized health and protection from witchcraft.
It was given to each other by lovers before separation. It was believed that the stone would help to remain faithful.
It is not for nothing that in the peculiar hierarchy of weddings there is also an agate, fourteen-year anniversary of family life.
Naturally, the best gifts for her are things made from this stone.
The magical properties of agate stone are strong and largely depend on the color of the stone.
Milky white is a talisman for children, protecting them from dark forces. Symbolizes peace, spiritual kindness. It also helps to gain confidence.
Gray agate is the gem of justice. It reconciles people, helps resolve conflicts, eliminates rancor and any unkind thoughts.
Blue stone is prescribed for creative and energetic individuals. It stimulates the ability to act, encourages inspiration and creation.
Purple agate expands mental capabilities and gives courage in solving difficult tasks and complex issues.
Smoky agate is an assistant in finding the meaning of life and trust in others.
The red gem attracts love like a magnet and serves family well-being.
People involved in trade and business should first acquire the yellow mineral. It also defeats depression, attracts an optimistic attitude and fun.
Black gem is the most magical and healing. It was and is used in many religious rituals, so it has absorbed the most powerful force. This is the best amulet and energy drink.
Apricot agate (aka Botswana) removes damage, serves as a shield from external negativity, and helps overcome grief and despondency.
Thus, thanks to the diversity of its types, agate stone exhibits magical properties widely and with great benefit to humans.
What stones and metals is it compatible with?
The compatibility of agates with other stones depends on the type of mineral. Variegated, colored agates are combined with such gems as:
- beryl;
- opal;
- coral;
- Moonstone.
Light-colored agates are best worn together with malachite, sardonyx, and beryl.
Black agate is rare . It looks attractive and luxurious. It would be appropriate to wear it with diamonds, rubies, peridots or aquamarines.
Agate is usually set in gold or silver. They enhance the energy of the stone and help reveal the properties of the magical mineral.
There are also inexpensive options. In this case, the frames are made of steel or other types of metal. To make products look more attractive, jewelers resort to silver plating technology.
An alloy of copper and nickel enhances the magical and healing properties of agate. Such products are in high demand.
Healing properties of agate
Ring with agate
The healing properties of agate have been discovered for a very long time. Ancient people believed that the more saturated the color of a gem, the stronger its healing function. And it “works” in direct contact with the human body. Bright, juicy pebbles have a beneficial effect on the general immune system and strengthen it.
During the era of “cameo” agate fashion, gems with a symbolic image of the disease were popular. For example, the bare-haired maiden on the cameo represented migraines and other ailments associated with the head. They were worn to avoid or drive away unwanted headaches.
In lithotherapy, it is recommended to use the gem for various fevers, kidney diseases and insomnia. Serves as an excellent preventive measure to avoid damage to vision.
Normalizes the mineral and the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract; it is indicated for those who are prone to frequent cramps. The mineral affects the psyche: relieves stress, attacks of irritability. It has also been noted that the owners of this gem are eloquent and pleasant conversationalists.
All these miraculous therapeutic properties of agate stone appear if it is natural - of natural, and not laboratory origin. Also, to enhance the effect of agate therapy, you need to wear jewelry with it correctly.
Necklaces, pendants, and string beads are worn for sore throat or chronic cough. The brooch will relieve asthma, pulmonary and bronchial ailments. For aching and tooth pain, agate earrings are recommended. Gout, arthritis and other joint diseases are alleviated by gems in bracelets.
Physical and chemical properties
According to its chemical properties, the stone is classified as silica. The composition of the mineral also includes such elements as:
- sulfides;
- fluorides;
- carbonates.
Sometimes the presence of metals (iron) is noted. Some types have translucent edges.
It is a durable, hard stone, which is why it is used to create crafts. It is resistant to acids (only hydrofluoric acid is not tolerated). The beauty of the samples allows them to also be used in jewelry and to create luxury items.
Who is suitable for agate stone according to their zodiac sign?
Magicians and astrologers associate the mineral with the element of Earth. Patron planets of the stone: Venus, Mercury, Saturn, Moon.
Most of all, the gemstone loves and protects the representatives of the constellations Cancer, Taurus and Gemini.
Calf. For stubborn and irritable Taurus, the gem, especially gray agate (a symbol of balance), teaches patience and complaisance, helps to suppress anger, and be less irritated. A stone of blue shades is useful for slow and boring natures; it stimulates their activity and agility. This quality of Taurus, such as a thirst for enrichment, will be fully realized if you acquire a black amulet in time. It will increase the flow of finance and help you respond to obstacles in this process in a timely manner.
Twins. The dual nature of this sign needs such a talisman. Agate as a precious stone will not be a simple decoration: it will give Gemini the calmness and sobriety of judgment that Gemini needs. A cool head is what the unpredictable natures of this sign need in making the right decisions, be it business or love.
Cancer. This sign is characterized by creative thinking and a desire for creativity. Agate influences the creativity of Cancer better than other stones. At the same time, it strengthens faith in one’s own strength, since Cancer often doubts the correctness of the choice and is often dissatisfied with the result of his business. The gem will help to cope with suspiciousness, timidity, and will make the vulnerable Cancer more resilient. Cancer needs this talisman to develop its best qualities and live calmly and happily.
Virgo. Representatives of this constellation can fully count on an agate talisman if the search for a soulmate has taken too long or is simply unsuccessful. But in the future you don’t need to give up wearing the stone: it will help regulate peace and mutual understanding in the family.
Zodiac signs Aries, Scorpio and Capricorn succumb to the magic of agate. For them, the gem is a source of physical and spiritual strength; it will help them become more friendly and hospitable.
As you can see, the important function of this ancient, wise and beautiful stone is to maintain physical and mental health. Therefore, it should be worn correctly: with knowledge of who the agate is suitable for, with a clear understanding of what it is needed for.
How to wear agate
Perhaps everyone knows that all natural stones, including agate, have a lot of properties. The rules for wearing agate are mainly associated with them.
However, this is not the only criterion that determines how to wear agate.
You should not ignore such an important criterion as the combination of agate with the style of clothing, with other jewelry, and compliance with time and place.
How to wear agate stone correctly:
- As for its compatibility with clothing, due to the variety of colors of agate, it can be worn under many things. But style also plays an important role. Agate is a noble stone, so it is better to combine it with classic clothes, and in other cases, wear it as an amulet, you can even do it without anyone seeing it;
- Fashion trends are constantly changing and dictate new rules to us, however, agate has been a fashionable and popular stone at all times. Today, agate is also popular, no less than other stones, and medallions, rings, and beads made from it never go out of fashion. Agate jewelry looks very stylish, especially in combination with classic clothes, clothes in a business, formal style;
As for how to wear agate in accordance with its properties, there are the following recommendations:
- The properties of agate (especially healing) are enhanced if it is set in copper. However, if the purpose of wearing agate is purely aesthetic, then this mineral looks good in both gold and silver;
- If you need to get rid of cough, dental diseases, throat diseases, then you should wear agate beads;
- An agate necklace worn at the base of the neck will help get rid of thyroid diseases. But if it is a little longer, it will have a beneficial effect on the heart and lungs;
- Agate jewelry can also be worn on the waist - first of all, this applies to women. In this case, it will influence the normalization of the functioning of the female reproductive organs, as well as the functioning of the kidneys and spleen;
- Agate bracelets also affect the functioning of the reproductive organs when worn on the wrist. But bracelets worn between the shoulder and elbow joints will affect the functioning of the heart and lungs;
- It also matters how you wear earrings with agate. If the stone is adjacent to the lower part of the earlobe, it will help improve memory and brain function. It is important to remember that wearing an agate also depends on whether it is natural or not, so it is important to be able to distinguish real agate from a fake;
Medicinal properties
The science of healing with energy emanating from stones is called lithotherapy. People who understand the healing properties of minerals believe that Botswana agate is an accumulator of strong feminine energies. The focus of the feminine principle in him does not mean that he will not help the stronger sex. Men who constantly wear agate can get rid of many troubles associated with their health.
A wonderful stone can help a smoker cope with addiction. It helps lower blood pressure and is especially helpful in the treatment of genitourinary diseases (for both men and women). The mineral relieves people of digestive problems and helps get rid of neuroses and depressive disorders.
Experts in the field of Ayurveda believe that Botswana agate perfectly cleanses the circulatory and lymphatic systems of the body and improves immunity. Bizarre stripes merging into mysterious patterns were considered by ancient physicians not just as a random interweaving, but as particles that fell into the stone from several elements at once:
- fire;
- water;
- air;
- ether.
The Botswana mineral heals diseases of the eyes and ears. If you want to quickly quit smoking or get rid of “old” pathologies of the pulmonary system, take a raw pebble strung on a string and constantly wear it on your chest. It also has a healing effect for skin diseases and other inflammatory processes. You can put a small stone in a warm bath: this use of agate has a calming effect on the nervous system, helping to relieve stress and chronic fatigue syndrome.
If you want to lose weight and are practicing any kind of diet, you simply cannot find a better helper than agate. Place a small pebble in water and drink a little of it every day. Water with the mineral will speed up metabolic processes in the body, remove harmful substances and help you quickly lose those annoying pounds.
In jewelry stores and at exhibitions and sales of jewelry and souvenirs, you can purchase special massage figurines made from Botswana agate. If you slowly massage your back, arms and neck with them, this massage will improve blood circulation and reduce nervous tension within a few minutes.
On which finger to wear an agate ring?
- If we are talking about Gemini, then it is better to wear an agate ring on the ring finger. As for Taurus, they are recommended to wear agates on the middle finger. At the same time, it needs to be framed in noble metal. In all other cases, it is better to wear agate on the index finger;
- It is not recommended to wear agate in an ensemble with amazonite;
- When wearing agate, you should also focus on your zodiac sign. Agate has the strongest friendship with Taurus. However, it can also be worn by Gemini, Aries, Capricorn, Libra, and Cancer.
How to spot a fake
Although the mineral is inexpensive, it is counterfeited. Glass and plastic imitations are more common. The easiest way to spot a fake is to evaluate thermal conductivity. Natural stone remains cool in your hands for a long time. Its weight is greater than glass and plastic.
Black agate is faked by pressing stone chips. An artificial specimen can be identified by tracing the sample with the tip of a needle. If traces appear, they speak with confidence about pressing.
Inexpensive popular stone is sometimes counterfeited with glass, plastic
How to care for agate
- Caring for agate involves, first of all, protecting the stone from mechanical damage, as well as from damage that can be caused by chemicals contained, including in household detergents;
- Agate needs rest. Every day you need to remove the agate jewelry and let it rest for at least a few hours. At the same time, at least once a month it should be immersed in cold water for several minutes.
What is the price
The volcanic origin of agate makes it quite common. Agates stones are mostly inexpensive. Of the nearly two hundred species, the most valuable are Brazilian agate, moss agate, fire agate and sapphirine.
Individual copies of them, especially those set in silver or gold, can stand on a par with precious ones. But even for a jewelry gem they usually ask for one or two dollars per gram, maximum $100-200 per stone.
