Agate is a variety of microcrystalline quartz that does not form single visible crystals but only compact aggregates, cavity fills (geodes) and stalactite formations. Its name is attributed to Theophrastus, a Greek philosopher and naturalist who lived between the 4th and 3rd centuries. BC, who discovered it along the Acate river, in Sicily. In nature there are different types of agates, whose names are given based on the shapes that can be recognized inside; among the best known are banded, eye and fortress agates, musky agates and landscape agates. Agates are often subjected to artificial coloring treatments and take on the most varied colors. Industrial uses of agate take advantage of its hardness, its ability to maintain a highly smooth surface and its resistance to chemical attack.
Dimensions
Height (cm): about 2
Depth (cm): about 1.5
Width (cm): 2.5 approx
Weight (g): about 10
Property
Chemical Formula: SiO2
Mohs scale: 6.5-7
Relative density: 2.6
Crystalline System: Trigonal
