Blue lace agate
The stone of serenity and gentle speech
The soft blue banded agate, known in tradition as a stone of serenity and gentle speech.
Blue lace agate is a vein agate: fine bands of pale blue chalcedony alternating with white quartz, like lace. The best-known source is the Ysterputs mine in Namibia, where it formed in fractures of a volcanic rock about 183 million years old. Other sources include Kenya, Malawi, Zambia and Turkey. The blue is thought to come from the scattering of light rather than from a pigment, and no two stones are alike.
General information
- Name
- Blue lace agate
- Mineral group
- Chalcedony (quartz)
- Chemical formula
- SiO₂
- Colours
- Pale blue and white, in fine bands
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 6.5–7
- Specific gravity
- 2.6
Zodiac signs
- Pisces
- Gemini
Traditional meaning
- Serenity: Traditionally it brings calm and softness.
- Communication: Traditionally it is linked with the throat chakra and clear, gentle speech.
- Peace: Traditionally it offers reassurance and quiet.
- The diplomat's stone: Traditionally it helps keep one's speech calm and confident.
- Meditation: Traditionally it accompanies moments of stillness and reflection.
Care
Fairly durable (hardness 6.5–7): lukewarm water, mild soap and a soft brush. Keep it from knocks, heat, sudden temperature changes and harsh cleaners. Dyed stones can fade in long strong sun.
Meanings, zodiac signs and elements come from various traditions. They are not scientific or medical information and differ between sources.