Fire Agate

Item Description

Here we have a classic Fire Agate gem from Mexico. These are some of the most unique and distinctive Agates from any world locality. Fire Agate is a very rare forms of Agate, with a distinguishing appearance that does not resemble any other Agate type. It has been available commercially only in the last 60 years or so. Fire Agate is a brown Agate which has a botryoidal or grape-like growth form. What is special about this material is that it contains layers of plate-like crystals of iron oxide (limonite) in various planes. The iridescent colors of red, gold, green and, occasionally, blue-violet, result from interference between diffracted light rays traveling through and reflecting from these thin layers. High quality Fire Agates can be as impressive in their play of color as fine Black Opal, but Fire Agate is significantly more durable than Opal. Fire Agate is suitable for any kind of jewelry, including rings. This "Freeform" Cabochon cut gem is a good example showing deep amber/red/brown hues on the exterior, and bright green, yellow, orange and red flashes (with a tiny bit of blue and purple as well) which show up when the stone is rotated in strong light. Good quality and size, and perfect for any collector who wants a lovely stone of this classic material.