Agates

Agate is a rock formation consisting primarily of quartz and chalcedony formed within volcanic and metamorphic rocks. It has been used ornamentally in jewelry and seal stones as far back as ancient greece. It was reputedly first discovered by the greek naturalist and philospher Theophrastus between the 3rd and 4th centuries B.C.

There are innumerable varieties of agate including: lace agate, moss agate, greek agate, brazilian agate, kentucky agate, australian agate and blue lace agate.

Agate is prized for it's hardness, resistence to chemical attack, retention of a polished surface and beauty. It has various industrial uses besides its use in jewelry and ornamental and decorative arts.

Besides being beautiful, many believe that agate has various spiritual, healing and metaphysical properties.