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Fact: Agate is a "chalcedony"
which is one of the many varieties of quartz. It is scientifically
classified as a cryptocystalline or microcrystalline quartz, it
has a hardness of 7.
Agates come in many different forms. The main conditions necessary
for agate formation are the presence of silica from devitrified
volcanic ash, water from rainfall or ground sources, and manganese,
iron and other mineral oxides that form the bands and inclusions.
Agates in many different varieties are distributed worldwide.
The crazy lace agate pictured on my agate
cabochons page is found in Mexico. The plume agate is among
the many agates found in Eastern Oregon close to the Idaho border.
Idaho, Montana and Wyoming are known for having beautiful agates
as are Nebraska, Kentucky, Tennessee and West Virginia to name
a few places in the United States where it is found.
Fancy: People have admired agates for thousands of years.
It has been used for jewelry, decorative ornaments, and even furniture.
It was believed that agate had unique properties that protected
the wearer from dangers and promoted strength and healing.
Finished Jewelry using Northridge Plume
Agate
Finished Jewelry using Agate
Agate Cabochons Available for Jewelry
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