A natural decision

Agate is a microcrystalline quartz which is actually a variety of chalcedony. There are many different types of agate with different uses, histories and legends. Agate can often be dyed, but when it’s in its natural state, it has an abundance of colors.

One of our varieties of natural agate beads

Natural agate has been called nature’s most striped gemstone. Those stripes are not typical straight up and down patterns like you might see normally on items such as clothing, flags or wallpaper. Stripes on natural agate are often swirling bands which gives this gemstone a truly unique look.

The different colors within natural agate are created by limonite crystals which seep into the rock cavity when it is formed.

Natural agate can be found all over the world in places like Brazil, Uruguay, Italy, India, Egypt, Mexico, China, Germany and the United States. One of the most noteworthy places natural agate can be found in is in Minnesota on the shores of Lake Superior. It is believed that this is home to some of the oldest agate in the world dating back billions of years. Minnesota has adopted the Lake Superior agate as the state’s official gemstone.

Agate comes in so many forms and produces fashionable beads such as such as tree agate, moss agate, crazy lace agate and white agate to name a few. Wearing agate beads may not be so simple as there is a wide selection to choose from, all of which are available at Brightlings Beads.

Another selection of natural agate beads

It just comes down to a decision.

Decisions, decisions, decisions. Our everyday lives consist of a constant battle to make the right decisions. Quite often, people look for somewhere to turn for advice when it comes to making decisions. Natural agate is believed by some to be able to help in that department.  Now, the stones will not speak to you directly and waiting for an answer will leave you with a lot of spare time on your hands.

However, people often wear natural agate when making an important decision. In addition to helping with decisions, natural agate has a long-standing history of being a protective stone. It was worn on the armor of ancient warriors with intent of giving them strength and courage in battle.

Today, there is no need for such extreme uses. However, many people who wear natural agate beads believe that it can protect them from stress and bad dreams while even helping with an upset stomach. It is considered to be the ultimate protection stone, especially for children.

Protection goes deeper than the physical natural as agate gemstones are also believed to strengthen the intellect. In today’s day and age, strength is needed in all areas of everyday life. Natural agate beads may lend you a little help in those areas but will assuredly strengthen your fashion sense with their chic look and beautiful design.