Bright colored agates have won the minds of the people across the world. This ancient gemstone has been used since prehistoric ages. Its appearance is so overwhelming that people continue to use it in various forms of jewelry. Each of these easily available gems is unique, as you will never find two agates to share the same looks even if taken from the same specimen. The cavities of ancient volcanic rocks are where agates develop. Belonging to the family of chalcedony, agate is reputed for being the only banded form in the family. Like every gemstone, agate too has its share of interesting facts and myths revolving around it. Let us take a look at 10 of them.
1) Agate earns its name from the River Achates in Sicily, where it was said to be originally found. The river is now called Drillo River but it owns the credit of giving the famous gemstone its name.
2) There are evidences to prove that these gemstones were in use as back as 20000 BC to 16000 BC. Historical evidences point out that the Stone Age men of Western Europe used the gemstone. Records show that in 400 BC, the gemstone was used by Greeks to make jewelry and beads.
3) Being an ancient gemstone and thanks to its hardness and colorful appearance, it was one amongst the first materials familiar to mankind. In the ancient days, it was believed that wearing agates made the wearer friendly, truthful and persuasive. In short, it was considered to broaden the perspective of life.
4) In Persian culture, the gemstone was considered effective in preventing storms. It was believed to relieve the wearer from thirst. Various cultures across the world considered agate to be a gemstone that was protective.
5) Agate is associated with certain curative properties as well. It is said to be effective for insomnia, allergies, skin diseases, stress and a lot more.
6) Agate bowls were very famous in the past. Mithradates, the king of Pontus has treasured three thousand bowls made of agate gemstones. Even today, some of the collections of agate bowls by royal families are on display in the museums of European countries.
7) Sumerians own the credit of using agates in the making of seals, beads and other jewelry forms.
8) In the ancient times, Arabs and Persians set agate on their finger rings. These agates carried carvings of Koran verse or some symbolic figure, which the people believed would save them from hazards.
9) Agates seem to have some specific significance associated with the 12th and 14th wedding anniversaries. They are gifted to couples who celebrate the completion of 12 or 14 years of wedded life.
10) Agates of different colors seem to have association with various physical and mental properties. Every color of agate has certain features and hence those who wear agate, look out for the appropriate color to address their needs. This gemstone is considered to be a great gemstone for conditions related to pregnancy and it is said to protect the mother and the child.
Agates are said to possess various properties. Just like their appearance appeals to the senses, their qualities appeal to the minds. It is hence no wonder that the popularity of agate is growing steadily with each day.
