Lion's head XXL in Agate engraved with 'druzy-beak'

Agate is a transparent, but also sometimes opaque variety of quartz and a sub variety of chalcedony. The chemical structure of agate is identical to jasper, flint, hornwort and is often found together with opal. The colorful, striped specimens are used as semi-precious stones. The name agate comes from the Greek the name of the current river Dirillo in southern Sicily, where agates and other chalcedones were found. Traditionally, agate was worn as lucky stones or for healing. Consumables were also made of agate such as buttons. Agate is attributed a number of medicinal properties, such as protection during pregnancy, against headaches, skin disorders and balance disorders. According to various literature, agate belongs to the constellations Aquarius, Taurus, Scorpio and Gemini. Agate compounds form as a solution of silicic acid in cavities in older rocks. The stones can be artificially stained to obtain color combinations that are more vibrant than those found in nature. Major sources of agate are Brazil, Uruguay and the United States (Oregon, Washington and around Lake Upper). Closer to the Netherlands and Belgium, agate is also found in the Hunsruck in Germany. Chemical composition: SiO2 + Al, Ca, Fe, Mn Crystal system: Belongs to chalcedony quartz crystals, trigonal. Fission: none. Color: light blue or gray but it can also be green Stripe color: none. Gloss: glass gloss, matt, satin gloss. Hardness (Mohs): 6.5 to 7. Average density: 2.65 kg/dm3. Transparency: Clear to translucent.