Agate is a fine-grained variegated chalcedony (a member of the quartz family), usually with colors arranged in stripes, blended in clouds or showing moss-like forms (Moss Agate). Agates are generally formed by water seeping into cavities in volcanic rocks and hardened into varied-colored bands of chalcedony. These bands are often concentric, producing beautiful patterns.
Named after the River Achetes in Sicily, agate is said to have been the eighth stone in the breastplate of the anient high priest. In historic times, water in which it had been placed was used for cooking and drinking in order to alleviate sickness. Thought to protect the wearer from danger, encourage boldness and stimulate success.
Agate is the zodiac stone for Gemini (May 21 to June 21).
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