AGATE - PHYSICAL & METAPHYSICAL PROPERTIES

Agates range from transparent to opaque in a large variety of beautiful colors. It may present various tints in the same specimen. The stones can easily be artificially stained to produce combinations of color more vivid than those found in the natural state. Agate is a semipellucid form of crystallized quartz, comprised of bands or with branching inclusions of chalcedony. The physical properties of agate are, in general, those of quartz. Agate often has irregular or sometimes circular bands of color. It is often a result fossilized wood. Many fossils are actually agatized material wherein the organic substance has been replaced by agate while retaining the original structure. Agates are identical in chemical structure to jasper, flint, chert, bloodstone, and tiger-eye, and are often found in association with opal. The metaphysical properties associated with agate are self-expression, creativity, health and good fortune. It makes it much easier to express oneself by soothing emotions and pain. Agate helps to develop powers of eloquence, self-confidence and public-speaking. It is believed to be of special benefit to athletes and to those taking any kind of examination or test - mental or physical. It eases a sore throat and takes away the hoarseness. This stone also works directly with the nervous system to alleviate physical tension and is said to be a treatment of arthritis, skeletal conditions. Agate aids digestion, reduces fever, hardens tender gums, gives courage and banishes fear.