WeAura Research in Green Agate
The Origins of Green Agate
The Egyptians used this gorgeous, translucent deep green stone. Agate was used for seals, rings, and vessel decoration at least 3,000 years ago. Agate is named from the Achates River (now known as the Dirillo) on the Mediterranean island of Sicily, which was once a major supplier of this gemstone. The Romans were the first to dye it in brilliant hues. Agate is still popular for art objects and jewelry today, but industry also “loves” it because of its hardness and chemical resistance.
Metaphysical Properties of Green Agate
Most of us knew we felt better when we had green plants and trees about us even before we knew about Feng Shui, the ancient Chinese concept of location and color. This is because green is a benevolent, humane color, according to Feng Shui. It has an effect on us, just like any other hue, even if we aren’t aware of it. The spiritual power of green is united with that of agate in this stone. Green agate improves compassion, kindness, and a sharp sense of justice, according to modern healers who employ stones in healing, as well as boosting mental and emotional flexibility, decision-making, and resolving disagreements. It also encourages others to have these characteristics.
Geological Characteristics of Green Agate
Agate is usually a banded stone with a blend of opaque and translucent layers, formed from small quartz crystals. The banding is what distinguishes agate from other chalcedony varieties. Agate deposits may be found on practically every continent (including Oregon in the United States), making it a relatively inexpensive and attractive gemstone. Layers of silica fill holes in other minerals to make agate. As riverbeds, ashfalls, and other environmental variables change over time, the layers form in stages, frequently with significant contrast. Agates are frequently produced in rounded nodules or knobs because they fill up gaps in (mainly) volcanic rock. Because each agate is formed by filling a distinct shaped void, each one is unique. A full agate is generated when the void is completely filled. When the hollow center of a geode or “thunderegg” is only partially filled with silica, it typically fills with crystalline quartz (called “druzy”) lining the inside—a common component of geodes or “thundereggs.” Most agates are optically dull when first discovered and must be cut or polished to expose their inner color banding. The fineness, sharpness, and stark color contrasts within the bands are widely used to estimate the commercial worth of natural stones (stones without any improvements). Agate has long been used to cut cameos, with the inherent variations in band colors used to create profiles and scenes. Handles, boxes, and other personal care and home décor products are examples of various usage outside jewelry.