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.