Agate

01 / Geological family

Origin and composition

Geological family

Decorative forms and materials

Origin and composition

a chalcedony variety of microcrystalline silica

Origin

deposits in many countries, including Brazil and Mexico

Appearance and identification

variable banding and colours

Pebbles, aggregates and river stones describe shapes or processing rather than one geological composition. Agate and petrified wood are ornamental materials with their own characteristics and should not automatically be treated like paving slabs. This section distinguishes a material from its commercial form to connect decoration, landscape and informed use.

02 / History and curiosities

History and curiosities

Banding can record successive silica deposition inside cavities.

03 / Applications and design

Applications and design

decorative objects, carvings and ornamental panels depending on fabrication.

04 / Technical interpretation

What to ask your supplier

Check whether panels are solid, resin-assembled, dyed or suitable for backlighting.

05 / Care and maintenance

Care and maintenance

Remove dust and grit with soft tools, wash with a compatible neutral cleaner, then rinse and dry. Identify composition before using stain or scale removers: carbonate stones are acid-sensitive. Test every treatment in an inconspicuous area. An impregnator can reduce absorption but does not make a material waterproof or stain-proof.