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.