Description

Agates mostly occur as nodules in volcanic rocks or waters containing silica in solution possibly derived from the decomposition of silicates in the lava.  The siliceous matter is deposited in regular layers resulting in the banded or striped formation.

Agate from India comes in a variety of types in Blackskin, Whiteskin or Yellowskin. The most popular are those containing moss. Most of the moss agate, (called suabhaji), comes from the Bud-Kotra area in Morvi in the area around Khambat (“Camaby”) in Gujarat Province, India. They are usually found buried about 2 feet under the surface and must be dug up. When cut and finished they take an excellent polish. The agate is normally clear or clouded with inclusions of dark-green or red-brown moss.