AGATE

Agate is the term used to describe the banded form of chalcedony. The term also covers translucent chalcedony varieties like moss agate, dendritic agate and phenomenal varieties like fire agate and iris agate. Agate has long been used to carve cameos, beads, cabochons, and decorative objects. Agate's name is derived from the site of its discovery, the river Achates (now Dirillo) in southwest Sicily.

More About Agate

Agate plays an important role in folkloric medicine and was once believed to cure the stings of snakes or scorpions. Some Native American groups revered it as a stone that could strengthen the body and calm the spirit. The ancient Egyptians believed that agate quenched thirst and protected the wearer from lightning. The ancient Chinese gave agate credit for bringing luck and opportunity and for energizing one's chi. There are as many folkloric beliefs touting agate's "powers" as there are patterns to be found in the stones. Whatever you choose to believe, there is one certain thing: agate is a splendid stone!