Agate

Agate, common semiprecious silica mineral, a variety of chalcedony that occurs in bands of varying color and transparency. Agate is essentially quartz, and its physical properties are in general those of that mineral. Agate is found throughout the world. Most agates occur in cavities in eruptive rocks or ancient lavas.

The agate-working industry grew up centuries ago in the Idar-Oberstein district of Germany, where agates were abundant. After 1900 most agates were supplied by Brazil and Uruguay. Most commercial agate is artificially stained so that stones unattractive because of their dull gray tints become valuable for ornamental purposes.

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