Diffuse Anger and Tension with Purple Agate

Purple agate is a deep purple chalcedony, a microcrystalline quartz found in Argentina, Brazil, India, Madagascar, Uruguay and the USA. In crystal lore it is the stone of protection, traditionally carried as a talisman against bad luck and misfortune. This guide covers its geology, history and lore, and how to tell it apart from amethyst.

It is also a popular stone for meditation. In chakra lore, purple agate is associated with the crown chakra and with intuition.

The Physical Properties of Purple Agate

This deep purple-coloured agate (SiO2) is a chalcedony, which is a microcrystalline type of quartz. It is made up of silica and oxygen, plus one or more other elements. With a Mohs hardness rating of 6.5 to 7, agate is a durable stone that can withstand scratches and abrasion and has a waxy lustre. Agates form in all mineral environments but it is most commonly found in igneous rocks.

Purple agate is often confused with amethyst because of their identical purple hue and sheen. But when you examine both stones against light, you'll notice that agate has a more distinct translucence. Another difference is that amethyst has a softer purple shade compared to purple agate. Amethyst is also more prone to discoloration from frequent exposure to light and has noticeable markings all over its body.

Like all types of agates, the colour and banded patterns of purple agates are produced naturally and are influenced by factors such as rock geochemistry, groundwater content, and pH levels. Although some agates occur in lighter colours and are dyed to deepen their shade for commercial uses.

Purple agate is a versatile stone used in polished pieces, tumbled stones, jewellery, ornamentation, and carved art. It is found in Argentina, Brazil, India, Madagascar, Uruguay, and the USA.

The History of Purple Agate

The Greek philosopher Theophrastus first called the stone agate because he found it in the Achates River (now renamed to Dirillo River) in Sicily, Italy. Agates are among the most valued gemstones in history and several talismanic uses were attributed to these stones.

The early use of agates traces back to the Neolithic Era (9,000 B.C. and 3,000 B.C.). Agate gemstones were used as amulets throughout the ancient Greek and Egyptian civilizations.

Agate gemstones are also used as symbols of power. In ancient Mesopotamia, Agates were engraved with seals to signify that its wearer is a person of wealth and authority.

Besides its symbolic use, ancient Romans used agate to create mortar and pestles for grinding their medicines.

As a birthstone, agate is associated with the months of May, June, and September. As a gemstone, it is associated with the Zodiac signs Gemini and Capricorn.

The Lore of Purple Agate

Nyx, the Greek goddess of the night, is associated with agate. In myth she rides a chariot across the sky, painting it black for the night.

Ancient Roman writers recorded the folk belief that powdered agate in water could neutralize venom. Seafarers wore an agate stone as an amulet against harsh weather during a voyage.

The Metaphysical Properties of Purple Agate

As a protective stone, purple agate is a traditional talisman against negative energies and misfortune. In lore its protection extends beyond the wearer to the wearer's family and household, so it is a popular gift for a new home.

The purple chalcedony is also the traditional stone of reconciliation. In lore it is kept in places where tempers run high, such as family homes and workplaces, as a symbol of peace between people.

Many people like to keep a purple agate on their desk or to hold one while they sit quietly after a long day. It is a simple, pleasant ritual, and the stone itself is a nice reminder to slow down.