Agates Volcanic Rocks: Origins & Characteristics
Agate is a typical rock formation primarily composed of chalcedony and quartz with various colors. The agate crystal is a mineraloid in geology and results from long-term accumulations of siliceous groundwater deposits in rock cavities. Studies show that agates take 50 million years to form.
Most occur as nodules in volcanic rocks or cavities in ancient lavas and voids of different types of rocks containing silica-rich groundwater:
- igneous rocks
- sedimentary rocks
- metamorphic rocks
The layering and banding visible within an agate indicate the shapes of the voids from which it develops. Agate is a transparent gem, a general name for a crystalline quartz and oxide mineral with silicon dioxide chemical formula. The agate crystal has a scratch resistance of 6.5 to 7.0 on the Mohs Hardness Scale.
Various Colors in Agate Types
Agates form different patterns and colors based on the environment during crystallization. Rock geochemistry, timeframe for crystallization, and geologic activity are essential for the process.
Depending on how the deposition fills the cavity, different types of agates are created. The specific layerings of silica result in color variations provided by their composition, pH, and chemical properties in groundwater through crystallization. Each layer of color is the result of different-sized silica spheres.
- Lace Agate has a lace-like pattern in the shape of eyes, swirls, bands, or zigzags
- Crazy Lace Agate has a complex pattern with random contour lines and circular droplets
- Moss Agate has a moss-like pattern in greenish color
- Dendritic Agate shows fern-like patterns
- Botswana Agate has stripes in pink and grey or in apricot and brown
Agate Healing Properties
Agate is a soothing, calming gemstone that has the influence of stabilizing mental function, improving concentration, and enhancing perception, and analytical abilities. It helps with resolving anger, and anxiety and helps in relationships.
Agate has a significant influence on rebalancing and harmonizing body, mind, and spirit by cleansing and stabilizing the aura. Each type of agate has its additional healing benefits.
- Blue Lace Agate has calming abilities and gives inner peace.
- Botswana Agate helps you see the bigger picture instead of dwelling on the small things. Excellent help to quit smoking addiction.
- Moss Agate for success and prosperity, be it financial or personal.
- Silk Agate protects from fatigue, nightmares, and stress.
- Flower Agate is imbued with Divine Feminine Energy that nurtures our souls. Heals the Heart and Root Chakras.
Agate Gemstones: How to Use or Wear
Agate was found with the artifacts of Neolithic people and was used as healing amulets and ornamentation dating back to the ancient Greek and Egyptian civilizations.
Amulet stones have a powerful vibration, especially the ones that were made through volcanic action. As such, jewelry made of agate carries the volcanic energy to lift your vibration when you feel in need.
At home, put the agate in the part of the house that needs energy replenishment and gentle healing. Agate has a calming effect on swirling energies, so its presence in your living place soothes an overactive mind and positively impacts emotions.
If placed on the area of the chakras, agate has a powerful cleansing effect on physical and emotional levels. It can help balance and align our energy vortexes, thus facilitating healing.
Buy Agates at the Village Rock Shop
As all gemstones are unique, there are no two Agates alike. Therefore, there are no similar experiences when getting in touch with an Agate. We source our stones directly from the mines and collaborate with crystal dealers who bring high-quality stones direct to our shop.
Are you new to the crystal world? Let us know; we will gladly assist you in finding the best crystals for your need. In our shop you'll find a wide variety of Agate products, we will gladly assist you in choosing the right ones for your needs: