Gemstone Information

Agate is the name given to numerous varieties of banded chalcedony, a mineral of the Quartz group. Like the other Quartz minerals, Agates have trigonal crystal structure and a hardness of 7. Stones such as Moss Agate and Dendritic Agate, because they do not exhibit banding, are not Agates in the strictly scientific sense.

The name Agate comes from the river Achetes in Sicily, where Agates were found in ancient times. Agates have been discoverd with the artifacts of Neolithic people, and they were used by early Egyptians before 3000 B.C. The stones were also utilized in jewelry in ancient India. Native Agates were the foundation of a German stonecutting and polishing industry which flourished from the fifteenth through the nineteenth centuries, and which still exists today.

In metaphysical terms, Agtes in general are known as stones of generally lower intensity and slower vibrational frequencies than some others, but this is not considered a defect. Rather they are regarded as stabilizing and strengthening influences which can help one to build a lasting connection or resonance with whatever energy pattern a particular variety represents. The wide variety of Agates offers one a full spectrum of choices.

ATTRIBUTES  Formed from microscopic crystals of quartz laid down in bands, this is a very stable crystal. Agates are grounding stones, bringing about an emotional, physical, and intellectual balance. They aid in centring an stabilizing physical energy.

Agate has he power to harmonize yin and yang, the positive and negative forces that hold the universe in place. A soothing and calming stone, Agate works slowly but brings great strength. Its multiple layers can bring hidden information to light. 

Psychologically, Agate gently facilitates acceptance of one’s self. This builds self-confidence. It aids self-analysis and perception of hidden circumstances, bringing to your attention any dis-ease that is interfering with your well-being. 

Agates enhance mental function as they improve concentration, perception, and analytical abilities, leading to practical solutions. Agate’s love of truthfulness encourages speaking one’s own truth. Agates with clear crystals can stimulate memories.  

Emotionally, this crystal overcomes negativity and bitterness of the heart. It heals inner anger, fostering love and the courage to start again. It is useful for any kind of emotional trauma. It creates a sense of safety and security by dissolving internal tension. 

Spiritually, Agate raises consciousness and links into collective consciousness and awareness of the oneness of life. It encourages quiet contemplation and assimilation of life experiences, leading to spiritual growth and inner stability.  

HEALING  Agate stabilizes the aura, eliminating and transforming negative energies. Its cleansing effect is powerful at the physical and emotional levels. Placed on the heart, it will heal the emotional dis-ease that prevents acceptance of love. Placed on the abdomen or taken as an elixir, Agate stimulates the digestive process and relieves gastritis. It heals the eyes , stomach, and uterus; it cleanses the lymphatic system and the pancreas; it strengthens blood vessels and heals skin disorders. 

POSITION  Hold or place on appropriate body location.

From: "The Crystal Bible" by Judy Hall.

Some pictures from the internet to show the diversity of this stone.