known that every stone has its own unique properties, and some of them are also the owners of interesting stories.These amazing minerals include agate stone - one of the derivatives of quartz.Its distinguishing feature is uneven color layered and often amethyst and quartz inclusions.But as a material for jewelry and sculptures are the most valuable items, uniform in coloring and composition.The size of these stones can vary from a couple of centimeters to meters in diameter almost.Because of such a large sample was made by ancient craftsmen unique vase.The diameter of this work of art reaches more than seventy-five centimeters, and it is kept in the Vienna Museum.
There is an opinion that the name of the stone originates from the Greek word for happiness - "Agates".According to another theory, it is believed that the agate stone got its name from the large river that crosses the island of Sicily.It was here, on the banks of ACAT, most often found rich deposits of this mineral.Later, the main place of production of agates was Germany, but after the XIX century the situation has changed: there were also developments in Georgia and the Crimea, the Urals, Armenia, Mongolia and Brazil.It is worth noting that in ancient times this stone was given much more important than it is today, and in many nations it is reckoned to even precious.Not for nothing has come to our times as many fine examples of ancient art, executed with the use of agate.Due to the unusual layered structure, they look simply amazing.Especially good variety of cameos carved out of stone.
Agate Stone: properties
There are many subtypes of this mineral.Among the huge variety of colors and shades, which can have a stone agate, distinguished white, light blue and gray.Also frequent minerals warm colors - orange, red and yellow.The most common color of agate is a mixture of several colors, but not some only one.Agate is opaque.Mohs hardness is defined as 6 (5-7), and the density - about 4.7 grams per cubic centimeter.This mineral - quite hard, but responds well to polishing.The last property helps him to be one of the most beautiful materials in jewelry.
agate stone: the magical properties of origin
From antiquity extant knowledge about some mystical features of this mineral.The ancient Romans, for example, was considered a symbol of agate Pomona - the goddess of tree fruits.Jewellery with him often were presented to people whose lives have been associated with farming or gardening.This tradition has survived to this day.Europeans felt amazing mineral symbol of good health and a long life, while the people of India noticed that Agate brings prosperity to the house.
Litoterapists and mysticism in our time appreciate the properties of the stone.It is believed that decorate him gradually change the character of a person for the better, making the wearer more enjoyable and sociable in communicating with other people.In addition, many believe in the protective properties of the mineral: the ability not only to invisibly protect from the snares of the enemy, but also "absorb" all the negative energy, thereby neutralizing it.It is noteworthy that this stone can be worn by both men and women.
Ring with a layered agate helps to representatives of a strong half look more attractive to the ladies.In addition, they are well suited in black stone.Wearing it is recommended only for men, but a very effective talisman as protection against real dangers and mysterious evil force.According to Indian beliefs, agate is useful to virtually all people, a stone soul.It can be worn and children, t. To. He dispels the disturbing thoughts and fears that may occur in a child.
also common belief that human agate sets to communicate with the subtle world, reveals his supernatural powers.Stones light shades make the owner more friendly and soft, give a feeling of serenity.In ancient times, when there were common poisons, agate is a very popular talisman: it was thought that it neutralizes poison or weaken its effect.Medicinal properties of the mineral varied.Depending on the localization of the disease, people are advised to wear earrings, necklaces or bracelets made of agate.
