Fire agate is a variety of chalcedony which contains inclusions of limonite or goethite, which are responsible for its unique appearance and the fiery iridescent effect that this stone possesses.
The Physical Properties of Fire Agate
Among the physical properties of fire agate, the one that is most prone to variations is its color. Since it possesses inclusions of limonite and goethite, its color will depend on those layers. Fire agate can have shades of orange, brownish red, and even green and blue, depending on the amounts of limonite and goethite within each individual stone.
When it comes to other physical properties of fire agate, this stone has an uneven fracture and is classified as 6.5 or 7 on the Mohs hardness scale. It has translucent or opaque transparency and a waxy luster. When fire agate is polished, its luster can be vitreous. It has a trigonal crystal system with microcrystalline aggregates.
The History of Fire Agate
Agates were named by Greek philosopher and naturalist Theophrastus, who found the first agate stone on the shore of the river Achates in Sicily between the 4th and 3rd century BC. In ancient times, agates have been used for hardstone carving. However, when it comes to fire agate, it's only been discovered and made commercially available relatively recently, about 60 years ago.
The Lore of Fire Agate
Due to fire agate's recent discovery and the fact that it is only found in a few limited locations, fire agate doesn't have quite as much lore connected to it as other stones do. However, crystal enthusiasts and healers have been using it for decades, which gave them enough time to get acquainted with its metaphysical properties.
The Metaphysical Properties of Fire Agate
Fire agate is a spiritual stone connected most strongly to flame and energy. However, despite that, it is said that fire agate has a slower frequency that gives it strengthening and stabilizing qualities. This is a stone of experiencing the joys of everyday life and the pleasures they can bring. It is said to banish the stagnating routines and reawaken one's energy and potency in every aspect of life.
When it comes to its physical healing properties, it is said that fire agate is great for individuals suffering from poor circulation, depression, lethargy, or a lack of energy, which it dispels by enhancing mental clarity and perception. Furthermore, it's also said to be effective in improving one's metabolism and treating issues of the endocrine system. As an elixir, fire agate is said to be a potent digestive system aid that can even relieve gastritis.
Emotionally, fire agate can bind you to the earth, giving you a grounding energy that brings calm and protection. Fire agate is all about decisiveness and action when it comes to its alleged emotional impact. It opens the lower chakras and brings creativity, will, and sexuality into focus.
This wonderfully unique stone will make a worthy addition to any crystal enthusiast's collection, and it will certainly bring warmth to your life.
