Agate Gemstones

What is Agate?

 

Agate is a translucent variety of microcrystalline quartz. It is used as a semi-precious stone when it is of desirable quality and color. Agate generally forms by the deposition of silica from groundwater in the cavities of igneous rocks. The agate deposits in concentric layers around the walls of the cavity or in horizontal layers building up from the bottom of the cavity. These structures produce the banded patterns that are characteristic of many agates. 

Agate occurs in a wide range of colors which include: brown, white, red, gray, pink, black and yellow. The colors are caused by impurities and occur as alternating bands within the agate. The different colors were produced as groundwaters of different compositions seeped into the cavity. The banding within a cavity is a record of water chemistry change. This banding gives many agates the interesting colors and patterns that make it a popular gemstone. 

Agate Gemstones:

 

Agates have been used as gemstones for thousands of years. They were some of the earliest stones fashioned by people. Today they are cut into cabochons, beads, small sculptures and functional objects such as paperweights and bookends. Agate cabochons are popular and used in rings, earrings, pendants and other jewelry objects. Agate beads are commonly made into necklaces and earrings. Some have been used as marbles. 

Tumbled Agate:

 

Agate is the most popular tumbling rough. It is generally inexpensive and can be tumbled with good results by beginners. It has a hardness of seven and can be tumbled with jasper and any of the quartz varieties.