Search Results

The largest deposits of agates in the world are found in southern Brazil.

Agate is a type of chalcedony, usually at least slightly translucent and banded or with inclusions. It forms in concentric layers in a wide variety of colors and textures. Each individual agate forms by filling a cavity in host rock.

Many agates are hollow, and in such cases the center commonly consists of quartz crystals directed towards the free space, forming a crystal-lined cavity, or geode. A layer of very fine crystals is known as "Drusy" or "Druse". Often the Drusy will be the color of the mineral underneath.

Agate has a hardness of about 7 on the Moh's scale. The name is derived from its occurrence at the Achates River in southwestern Sicily.

In many traditions agate is believed to cure the stings of scorpions and the bites of snakes, soothe the mind, prevent contagion, quiet thunder and lightning, secure the favor of the powerful, and bring victory over enemies.

Metaphysical Properties: Agates in general are known for being lower intensity stones. They are considered stabilizing and strengthening influences.