Fire Agate, 16.58ct

About Fire Agates

Fire agate belongs to the quartz mineral family and is a variety of chalcedony. What sets it apart though, are the three-dimensional swirls and patterns with iridescent rainbow colors seen in them.

Caused due to alternating layers of silica and iron oxide, the three-dimensional effect looks spectacular to watch and represents the typical crystal habit of agates also called the "botryoidal habit". Although the iridescence looks reminiscent of what is seen in opals, the optical effect at play here is completely different. Some of the patterns found in the fire agates can be thought of as artwork created by nature with vivid colors and are uncommon to any other gemstone.

These are a must-have for gem collectors and mineral enthusiasts. The cabochon-cut gemstones look wonderful when set into pendants or brooches. They are also commonly made into earrings and rings.
Unlike other agates that are commonly found, fire agates are extremely rare and are known to be found in only a handful of countries like Mexico and the United States. Most of the gem-quality material is found in the state of Aguascalientes, Chihuahua, and San Luis Potosi in Mexico and the states of California, New Mexico, and Arizona in the United States.