Vaal River Agate

Agate is a variegated class of Chalcedony, usually exhibiting coloured bands or other markings.  Some Agate is not patterned.  The chemical composition is SiO2 with other polymorphs of silica; Hardness 7.  Agate was first described by Pliny in 77A.D, ad was named for the River Achates in Sicily, the Type-locality.  The specimen locality is the Achates River, Sicily.

Agate is said to have been one of the stones used in the breastplate of the high priest.  In historic times, it was placed in water for use in cooking and/or for drinking in order to dispel sickness.

It has also been used to produce inspiration from, and connected-ness with, the entities residing in the spiritual worlds.  It has been reported to strengthen the sight, to diminish thirst, and to promote marital fidelity.  Note that all red / white / brown banded Agate has also been placed in corners to prevent spider intrusion.

In addition to the properties listed in the chalcedony section of this book, Agate also provides for balancing of yin-yang energy and for balancing of the physical, emotional, and intellectual bodies with the etheric energies.  It stabilizes the aura, providing for a cleansing effect which acts to smooth any dysfunctional energies and to both transform and eliminate negativity.  It further assists on in the development of a precision in the examination of oneself and of circumstances relevant to ones well-being.