Types of Agate (Part 2)
Other forms of agate include carnelian agate (usually exhibiting reddish hues), Botswana agate, blue lace agate, plume agate (such as Carey, Graveyard Point, Sage, St. Johns, Teeter Ranch and others), tube agate (with visible flow channels), fortification agate (which exhibit little or no layered structure), fire agate (which seems to glow internally like an opal) and Mexican crazy-lace agate (which exhibits an often brightly colored, complex banded pattern).
Agate beliefs
In many traditions agate is believed to cure the stings of scorpions and the bites of snakes, soothe the mind, prevent contagion, still thunder and lightning, promote eloquence, secure the favour of the powerful, and bring victory over enemies. Persian magi are also known to have prized agate rings in their work and beliefs.
Uses in industry
Industry uses agates chiefly to make ornaments such as pins, brooches, paper knives, inkstands, and seals. Because of its hardness and ability to resist acids, agate is used to make mortars and pestles to crush and mix chemicals.
In our next issue we will learn about Chrysoberyl. Or please visit our Beading Newsletter Archives section located at the left hand side of our homepage or simply click here…
Read More…
[Source: Beads and Beading Blog]