Eye Candy: Focus on Agate

Jewelry does a lot for us; it calls attention to areas we want to accentuate; when received as a gift, wearing it reminds us that we are loved; and, finally, wearing jewelry makes us feel attractive and well-dressed. But what if your jewelry could actually help you get through your day and bring positive benefits to your life? Many people believe that gemstones have metaphysical, healing and even magical properties. Whether or not you actually believe in these properties of gemstones, a little extra help just might be what you want some days.

Agate is a variety of chalcedony which is a microcrystalline quartz. It is translucent and often striped, though many stones named agates are not striped. There are many, many different types of agates in many different color combinations, and they are found all over the world.

Agate is said to balance energy, increase courage, provide protection, aid in healing, and calm shattered nerves. Historically it was placed in water used for cooking or drinking to dispel sickness. Wearing agate is also supposed to contribute to longevity. Agate can be used to strengthen the body and the wearer's connection to the earth. It also increases energy and helps with healing tooth and gum issues, stomach problems and insomnia. Agate is also said to increase physical endurance,

Agate is a stone of strength; it was used on the breastplates of armor to give warriors strength and make them victorious in battle. Wear agate to give you strength in physical and emotional battles; it is said to give the wearer luck. Emotionally, agate is supposed to increase courage and self-confidence; wearing it is said to help you conquer your fears. It is also supposed to lessen feelings of envy and help the wearer to see things as they really are. It is considered by many to be an excellent stone for helping to heal and improve relationships.

Agate enhances creativity and strengthens the intellect. Students and artists will benefit from wearing agates. It is especially protective for children, and makes an excellent stone for children's jewelry or just to carry around in a pocket.

Click on any photo to learn how you can add agate to your collection:





















The SATeam blog features artisan handmade creations by the etsy starving artists jewelry team. SATeam members create handcrafted jewelry and beads. More information about our team and its current etsy shop owner members can be found at SATEAM.etsy.com.