Interesting Facts on the Beauty and Spirituality of Agates
Agates have been discovered in virtually all countries that span the globe. In fact, it would be hard to name one country on the globe that does not include at least one identified source of this common stone. The widespread occurrence of this stone can be explained by its mineral content. Agate mainly consists of a dioxide of silica. Given the fact that silica is the most prolific mineral on on the earth’s surface, the global discovery of agates is logical. In the geologic past, i.e. tens of millions of years ago, water dissolved silicon dioxide in the rocks and volcanic ash on the surface of the earth. Gradually, the water vaporized and the salts were left behind as a solid residue. Under high heat and force the solid residue was fused together and was converted to stones that can be found today. The principal factor that gives agates their varied patterns is that the silicon dioxide was deposited in concentric layers. Each layer brought with it a wide range of secondary substances, many of which modified the visual appearance and physical characteristics of the silicon dioxide. Sometimes, the mineral solution included organic materials such as wood. As millions of years passed, the plant remnants decomposed to be replaced with mineral compounds, leading to the formation of petrified wood. Agates generally have a hardness ranging to 7 on the Mohs scale. The specific gravity of this stone varies between 2.6 and 2.7.
Followers of metaphysical sciences say that agates provide a range of positive properties. Typically, agates may aid in balancing the energy aura, provide courage to the wearer, control emotions, help heal after physical injury, and promote the overall psychological health and protection of the person. Pre-teens more than most may benfit from its powers. It is for this reason that this stone is considered to be much sought after for children’s amulets. Throughout history, agate has been a symbol of strength. Soldiers adorned their cloaks with agates because they believed that agate helped the win. Artists and intellects also have faith in the power of agates because they are known to make one creative and enhance the mind. These stones are thought to cleanse the aura by removing undesirable emotions. Agates are claimed to build friendships, and promoting being faithful. So followers will often wear a sterling silver pendant or some other jewelry containing agate to benefit from its energy.
There are numerous genres of agates found globally. In this collection of agates, certain forms of agates are more popular than others. Botswana agates often display stunning colors and beautiful bands. This form of agates are often included in today’s jewelry designs. Fire agates from North and Central America are also are popular with costume jewelry fans. Fire agates are orangish-brown in color as a consequence of the presence of iron impurties within the SiO2 matrix. These bright colors lend their own uniqueness to gemstones jewelry designs.
When it comes to today’s jewelry designs, agates have gained in popularity because of the dazzling array of patterns and colors in which they can be found, and because they are not costly. As a consequence of their durability, most agates can be facet or smooth cut and polished quite readily. Colorful specimens are mounted in metal settings to create beautiful fashionable pieces. Agate beads are generally cut with a smooth finish. Each specimen can be elongated, in accordance with the preference of the designer.
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