Description

Agate is a variety of chalcedony, a cryptocrystalline form of quartz. It forms in cavities in concentric layers in wide variety of colors and patterns. The differing colors are the product of various metallic impurities. It is often found as a round nodule with concentric band like the rings of a tree trunk. These varieties are called banded agate or striped agate. Botswana Agate is banded agate. Lace Agate is a variety that exhibits a lace-like pattern with forms such as eyes, swirls, bands or zigzags (if predominate, it is called lattice agate). Crazy lace agate, found in Mexico, is often brightly colored and completely patterned. Blue lace agate is found in Africa and is especially hard. These are huge deposits of Agate in Brazil and Africa.