Category: Bead Types

Agate is a variety of chalcedony, a cryptocrystalline form of quartz. Translucency, patterns of color, or moss-like inclusions may distinguish this stone from other forms of chalcedony. Agates can show a wide variety of vivid, multiple colors. These are principally the result of traces of oxides of iron, manganese, titanium, chromium, nickel, and other elements. All agates take a wonderful polish and are tough enough for most jewelry uses. Designers often take advantage of the intriguing patterns these stones have to offer to create unique and fascinating pieces.

Varieties of Agate

The color patterns in agates usually take the form of flat or concentric layers or bands. Mossy or dendritic inclusions can sometimes create the impression of vegetation and landscapes.  Varieties of this gemstone are described by their color patterns, inclusions, or source

Banded

With regular color layers and bright colors, this variety is one of the most popular. These stones are found all around the world, but Brazil is one of the most productive sources. Many of the richly colored, banded agates you see for sale are dyed.

Moss, Plume, and Dendritic

These stones contain mossy inclusions of mineral oxides that may be any color. Stones that present plant-like patterns are called moss agates. Those with feather-like patterns are called plume agates. Those with tree-like, branching patterns are called dendritic agates.

Picture or Scenic

Some inclusions can create the appearance of whole landscapes, complete with lakes, shorelines, trees, and shrubs, within an agate. Stones that show these “natural pictures” are treasured.

Fire

Inclusions of plate-like crystals of limonite make fire agates iridescent. Cutting and polishing can enhance this effect.

Lace

Noted for their delicate designs, these stones are banded with intricate swirls and loops. Mexico is one of the premier sources of this material.

Iris

These stones show iridescent colors reflecting from between the color layers.

Shell

Embedded, silicified shells create patterns in these agates. Turritella agate is composed mostly of shells and shell fragments of the gastropod turritella and certain other species.

Petrified Wood

Fossilized ancient tree trunks and limbs may have their organic components replaced by agate stone over millions of years. In some cases, their woody structure may also be preserved and visible with a microscope. The agate’s color may be very bright and strong.

Enhancements

Dyeing is an ancient and common practice for enhancing agates. (Chalcedony stones are relatively porous). This is usually a stable process.

A celebrated secret process for dyeing agates was developed in Idar-Oberstein, Germany, in the 19th century. When the agate deposits in this town were depleted, emigrants to South America shipped grey agates back to Idar-Oberstein. These pieces were dyed and the results were extraordinary. (1)

Sources

(1) International Gem Society
(2) Photos by Freepik

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