Hardness: 6.5-7

Enhancement code: Dyed

Quality Information:

Generally occurs banded, without bands or markings it’s generally known as Chalcedony.

Care: To clean, gently scrub with a soft toothbrush and a solution of mild dish soap and warm water.

Major Sources: Myanmar, Brazil, Uruguay, Argentina, Mexico, Botswana, India, Australia and the USA

Agate is known as one of the oldest gemstones in recorded history. It belongs to the quartz group which is one of the second most abundant minerals found in the earth’s crust. It is a variety of chalcedony which also includes a wide range of gemstones including chrysoprase, bloodstone, jasper and carnelian. Agate is referred to as the ‘banded’ variety of chalcedony, it’s colours can include black, white, blue, red, green, yellow, orange, brown, pink, purple and grey. The best-coloured stones were known for coming from Idar-Oberstein in Germany.