Agates are have been identified in dozens of countries across the globe. In fact, that does not possess at least one known deposit of agates. The widespread occurrence of agate can be attributed to the main mineral that forms agate. Agate mainly formed from SiO2. Since it is a known fact that SiO2 is the widely found mineral on the surface of the earth, the common occurrence of agates is only expected. In the geologic past, i.e. more than fifty million years ago, water dissolved SiO2 in bedrock and volcanic ash on the surface of the earth. When the water gradually evaporated with time the dissolved silica was left behind as a solid residue. Under high temperature and pressure the evaporite (was solidified and metamorphosed to agates that can be found today. The principal cause that gives agates their vivid patterns is that the silicon dioxide was deposited in well-defined layers. Each layer also included a variety of secondary chemicals, a few of which changed the visual appearance and physical characteristics of the silicon dioxide. In isolated locations, the mineral solution contained organic materials such as wood. With time, the organic matter rotted away to be replaced with inorganic matter, leading to the generation of petrified wood. Agates usually have a hardness value just over 7 on the Mohs scale. The specific gravity of most agates varies over a fairly narrow range of 2.6 and 2.7. Followers of metaphysical sciences say that agates provide a range of positive attributes. Most commonly, agates are claimed to aid in balancing one's energy, provide courage to the wearer, calm the emotional, help enhance healing, and aid with the overall physical and mental health and protection of the person. Children more than others are said to benefit from its powers. It is for this reason that agates are is the stone of choice for jewelry. Historically, this stone has been a symbol of strength. Warriors preparing for battle decorated their cloaks with agates for they believed that agate enhanced strength. Several people also believe in the power of agates because they are thought to enhance one's creativity and enhance the mind. These gems are claimed to cleanse the aura by reducing adverse sentiments. They are thought to build friendships, and promoting marital fidelity. There are several varieties of agates found on the earth's surface. Within the agate family however, certain types of agates desesrve attention. Botswana agates usually display stunning colors and interesting banded patterns. This type of agates are often used in designs for fine and fashion jewelry. Fire agates from Central and South America are also used in jewelry designs. Fire agates are brownish-orange in color as a consequence of the presence of iron minerals within the SiO2 matrix. In contemporary costume jewelry, agates have inspired a wide range of designs because of the numerous patterns and colors in which they can be found, and because they are affordable. As a consequence of their strength, most agates can be facet or smooth cut and polished with relative ease. Colorful agates are mounted in pewter settings to create beautiful fashionable pieces. Specimens are often cut with a smooth finish. Beads can be oval, as required by the designer's preference.
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Agates are considered to be sought-after gemstones in costume jewelry. This demand is because of the several bright colors of agates that are widely found on earth. Furthermore, since agates are found worldwide, they are affordably priced. The unique forms and fashion friendly cost of this stone combine to make it well suited for affordable teen jewelry. This technical essay addresses this popular yet inexpensive stone.
The author is an amateur gemologist with extensive knowledge about silver jewelry such as sterling silver pendants, bracelets, earrings, and pins. He writes about gemstones and gemstone jewelry.
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