While bright coloured gemstones feature a distinct charm, you cannot deny the fact that a black jewel is nothing less than beautiful. Its mysterious allure is something you definitely can’t stop admiring. One such stunner is the gorgeous black agate. One of the lesser-known gems in the market, this variety of chalcedony looks quite similar to the black onyx (another variety of chalcedony).
For the unaware, chalcedony is a variety of the mineral quartz. In fact, black agate is often mistaken for its black onyx counterpart. Having said that, the two gemstones are different from each other in many ways. As a gem enthusiast or someone who loves black jewels, you should definitely know about black agate vs. onyx differences.
Talking about the differences, the major one between these two stones is how they look. Keep reading to know about the ways to identify a black agate stone.
How to Identify Black Agate?
Agate comes in a variety of colours, including grey, white, black, brown, pink, orange, red, yellow, etc. However, black agate is one of most common colours used in jewellery. Identifying a black agate will be easier if you understand these three basic aspects about the gem. Looking at the stone’s colour, line structure and lustre will help you figure if it is a black agate stone or not.
All agate gemstones, including its black variant, feature specific banding patterns and layers. Talking about the layers inside a black agate gem, you will notice their colours to mostly be a combination of black and dark grey or black and dark brown. Coming to the line structure, this jewel typically features many unstructured lines running along the length of the stone. Usually, you will see curved as well as circular lines. This jewel has a unique glass-like lustre, which makes its surface appear smooth and shiny.
History of Black Agate
Agate gets its name from the river Achates in Sicily where it was discovered by Theophrastus, a Greek philosopher and naturalist. This discovery dates back to somewhere between the 4th and 3rd centuries BC. The Ancient Greeks also called it as the stone of the warriors.
What’s more, this gemstone was considered a symbol of power and authority in ancient Mesopotamia. It was often possessed by the rich and wealthy to earn respect from others.
Ancient Romans used agate to make mortar and pestles that aided them in grinding everyday ingredients. That’s not all! Persian magicians donned agate rings as they believed it would make them more powerful. People from some other cultures also believed that the gem could cure snake bites and scorpion stings.
Did You Know?
It is said that agate stones have been used by people since the Bronze Age for various reasons.
What Does Black Agate Symbolize?
Like every gemstone has a unique meaning, black agate is also said to have multiple symbolisms. While known to promote self-confidence and courage, the stone is also symbolic of resilience and prosperity. Moreover, it represents positivity, peace and balance.
Does the Black Agate Feature Any Healing Properties?
Now, we know that black agate is coveted for its unconventional colour, rich history and unique symbolism. However, this stone is also believed to have several healing properties, which can be grouped into three major categories. They are as follows:
• Physical Properties
It is believed that wearing black agate or using a healing crystal helps in curing respiratory issues, indigestion, dental issues, cramps as well as easing nausea. The gem is also used for treating headaches, dizziness and skin problems. That’s not all! People believe it to improve various conditions of the intestines and blood.
• Emotional Properties
A lot of believers call black agate a balancing stone that helps them get rid of the negative energy and bring them happiness and harmony. It is said to cleanse the aura and alleviate the feelings of anger, abandonment, grief, anxiety and sadness while bringing stability in emotions and a certain level of calmness.
• Metaphysical Properties
Grounding and centreing are two things that this gemstone is famous for. It is said to stabilize the Root chakra, which helps let go of the negative energy and thoughts, making it easier for you to grow and prosper. The stone’s grounding energy also helps the body fight diseases and issues of the pancreas, uterus and eyes. Better focus and the ability to deal with problems as well as making good decisions are also some benefits of using this stone.
Important Note: There is currently no scientific evidence that supports black agate’s ability to do the above-mentioned.
Black Agate
- Is black agate a durable gem?With a hardness rating of 7 on the Mohs scale, black agate is a fairly durable gemstone. However, it does need to be handled with extra love and care.
- Is black onyx jewelry a good alternative for black agate?Yes, black onyx jewelry, especially engagement rings are highly preferred by modern couples who like to take the unconventional route. However, you can also check out other gemstone engagement rings and gemstone promise rings if you are not a fan of the black color.
- What other black gemstone jewelry do we recommend?If you are absolutely in love with diamonds, but also want to try something different and unique, go ahead and opt for gorgeous enhanced black diamond jewelry. Trust us, it will become your instant favorite.
