Agate
ag·ate | a-gət
noun
A variety of chalcedony found in all colors
Agates were one of the first stones ever fashioned by humankind. They are a versatile gem found hidden inside the rough exterior of volcanic rock. Agate beads are used extensively in Scottish jewelry, particularly in necklaces, rings, and earrings - some have even been used as marbles. Agate is available in a wide range of colors, which include black, brown, white, gray, red, pink, and yellow. The colors are generated by natural corruption and transpire as rotating bands within the agate. The various colors were produced as subsurfaces of various compositions which flowed into the cavity. The banding provides agates the captivating colors and patterns that make it a desired gemstone.