Agate

About Agate

Characterized by concentric banding in multiple colors. Each agate is unique - no two are exactly alike. They have been used for carved signet rings for 3,000+ years. Idar-Oberstein in Germany was the historical center of agate cutting for 500 years. Botswana agate, fire agate, and blue lace agate are prized varieties. They form in volcanic rock cavities, filling with silica-rich fluids over millions of years. Over 3,000 named varieties exist. They are relatively inexpensive and popular with collectors. The Sumerians used them for cylinder seals. They are among the most common semi-precious stones.