| Agate:
Tectosilicates
(A variety of quartz often with some iron and aluminum) SiO2 AKA: Chalcedony |
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System: None; chalcedony is a microcrystalline variety of quartz. Appearance: White to gray, brown, blue, black and variegated, banded. Dull waxy to vitreous luster depending on granularity and the variety; streak white Physical Properties: Hardness: (7); Specific gravity: (2.6 - 2.64). Cleavage: None. Smooth conchoidal fracture; transparent when colorless, otherwise translucent to opaque as colors get darker; fracture, brittle to tough; sometimes weakly fluorescent. Similar species: Very few minerals are confused with chalcedony. Occurrence: Chalcedony is formed in several environments, generally near the surface of the earth where temperatures and pressures are relatively low. It commonly forms in the zone of alteration of lode and massive hydrothermal replacement deposits and as bodies of chert in chemical sedimentary rocks. Banded agates and colorful chalcedony occur as amygdules in basalt on the north shores of the Great Lakes in Ontario. Beautiful trees have been replaced by chalcedony at the Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona. Miscellaneous: Agates are used as gem and ornamental stones. Agate is the birthstone for May. Conventional Wisdom: Agates taken to bed were generally supposed to cure insomnia and bring pleasant dreams. Ancient Britons believed that agates would ward off skin diseases. Syrians thought that triangular-shaped agates would prevent intestinal troubles. Women drank water in which green agates had been washed, believing that such water was a fertility charm. Have also bee known to sharpen eyesight, increase physical strength, and alleviate thirst. Moslems claim that powdered agate drink in water would cure insanity. In 1864, The Book of Saxon Leechdoms said agates prevent harm from thunder, sorcery, demonic possession, poison, disease, drunkenness and skin eruptions. Agate is said to improve natural vitality and energy and to increase the self-confidence of the person using it. It is believed to be of special benefit to athletes and to those taking any kind of examination or test - or anyone else who has to call upon instant bursts of energy whether mental or physical. Balances the emotions and calms the body, mind and feelings. General healing power, reduces fever, hardens tender gums, gives courage and banishes fear, also assists the wearer to express thoughts into spoken words. Helps to develop powers of eloquence. Stone of health and good fortune. Strength, courage, longevity, gardening, love, healing, protection. Banded agate: Bodily energy and eases stress. Black agate: Courage and successful competitions. Black and White agate: Guards against physical dangers. Blue Lace agate: Peace and happiness Soothes emotions, pain. Peaceful relaxing energy. Works with throat chakra. Helpful in public speaking. Brown/Tawny agate: Success and wealth. Green agate: Health. Moss agate: "Gardener's talisman," healing, energy, riches, happiness, long life. Red agate: Healing, calmness, peace. Belongs to the Astrological Sign of Gemini. |