ALWAYS LEARNING & LOVING IT! (part 2)
This is a continuation of last weeks blog. 2 weeks ago I went to a Wholesale Gemshow, when I was “scoping” out the treasures, I came across a few “new to me” finds. I was a bit skeptical about what the vendor was calling these beauties, BUT they were again, “new to me” and figured I would take them home and research. I knew when the vendor was labeling them “seaweed Agate” there was a slight chance he was wrong, but for the cool design and “never before seen by me” treasure I had to have it……… Like I mentioned my biggest fear in this business is misleading my customers.
A BIT OF MY FINDINGS……..
When I got these beauties home I started my research. I first used the infamous route of Google, I typed in Seaweed Agate and low and behold the information that came up continued to lead me to “moss agate” then I searched images on google and again all that came up was “moss agate”, which makes sense due to the green color, and moss look is very similar to seaweed. This confirmed that they were not called “seaweed agate”.
My knowledge told me I was on the right “agate” path, due to the bands throughout the pieces I purchased. With further research and asking a very knowledgeable gem collector, it looks to be a combination of an Agate which is the name given to numerous varieties of banded Chalcedony (a mineral from the Quartz family) and Dendrite. Dendrites are the branch-like formations of iron or manganese oxide inclusions that crystallize within the stone and are not banded and in scientific terms they are not strictly an agate but are included in the Agate family. The name comes from a greek word meaning “tree-like”
The combination of the two is called Dendritic Agate! Metaphysically, these symbolize growth or change. Agate is also helpful in overcoming negative emotions by bringing love into the chakras. Although they work very slowly, this gentle nature of Agate helps them to have a lasting impact.
Dendrite Agate assists with connection to nature, promotes protection, wealth, abundance and creativity.
Pictured are the treasures I have purchased, check them out & if they are still available these could be an awesome unique treasure to add to your collection!
Again, we all need to research, I purchase because I am drawn to it, even if I know its not for me personally, and I research later, for me that is the best part of being a collector and retailer!!!
Namaste ~
