Agate

Hardness: 7 00

Refractive Index: 1.53-1.54

Specific Gravity: 2.61 

 

Birthstone: May & June* (*various colors & varieties)

Astral Stone: Taurus, Gemini, Virgo, Libra & Capricorn* (*various colors & varieties)

Anniversary Stone: 12th & 14th  

 

Origination: Uruguay, Brazil, Germany, the United States & others. 

 

Care & Cleaning: Rub lightly with a soft polishing cloth.  A dab of olive oil will bring out a lovely shine. 

 

Fiction, Facts & Folklore: 

 

Agate is a multi-banded variety of the chalcedony mineral group. 

 

The term �evil eye� is attributed to a gem known as �eye agate�, a stone feared by ancient civilizations, who believed this stone was influenced by the devil. In many instances, a piece of amber was worn to protect monarchs from this �evil eye.� 

 

Agate has been used for years in the creation of the cameo 

 

A relatively new find of lavender agate has recently surfaced in Nevada. 

 

Kentucky, Louisiana, Nebraska and South Dakota all list various forms of  agate as their state stone.

 

The multi-colored �condor agate� has recently surfaced in South America. 

 

The most common colors of agate are blue and green. 

 

Astrologers often associate green agate with the planet Mercury. 

 

The Persians believed by holding a piece of agate towards approaching clouds, they could divert an oncoming storm.  

 

Some believed agate could cool a feverish child. 

 

The cutting center of Idar-Oberstein, Germany evolved through the mining and cutting of agate bowls in 1497. These bowls were treasured by royalty. 

 

If you dream of agate, prepare to take a long journey.