Mohs Scale Hardness: 7 - 9

Chemical Composition: SiO2  

Appearance:  Agates are found in all colors of the rainbow,   although green and blue are quite rare.

Occurrence: Africa, Asia, Brazil , Egypt , Germany , India , Italy , Mexico , Nepal , U.S.A.

Fact, Legend, Healing Properties:

Agate is a variety of chalcedony formed from layers of quartz which usually show varicolored bands. It usually occurs as rounded nodules or veins.

Often tiny quartz crystals form within the stone and add to the beauty and uniqueness of individual stones. These crystals are called drusy (sometimes misspelled as druzy). Lapidaries often cut just the drusy from an agate and jewelers use these drusy cabochons as the main stone or as an accent stone in their jewelry designs.

Agate is believed to discern truth, accept circumstances, and is a powerful emotional healer. Chinese legend says that Agate improves memory and concentration, increases stamina, and encourages honesty. It is also believed that Agate provides a calming influence, improves perception, and helps to develop and increase one's analytical talents.