Exploring the Gemstone Called Blue Lace Agate

Do gemstones really have metaphysical and healing properties? If you had asked me that question a decade or so ago, I probably would have answered with a resounding "no!" However, beginning in the mid-90's, my love for jewelry and gems began leading me to believe that, in truth, they most probably do.

I've noticed over the years, that when I wear certain gems, I "feel" differently. For example, the bright, playful orange of the padparadsha sapphire gives me energy and makes me feel a bit mischievous. The fire of the opal unlocks my own fiery spirit and unbridled passion. The deep elegance of the garnet, brings out the old-fashioned part of me.

In 2000, I discovered a beautiful stone that I had never heard of before. It is called blue lace agate and it has quickly become one of my favorite gems. I have found that this stone suits me perfectly; partially because of its color and appearance and partly because of its metaphysical properties.

Blue lace agate got is name from the white striations that run throughout the pale blue stone. They give the gem a very delicate, lacy look.

Although blue lace agate is technically a member of chalcedony gem family, it is unique enough to warrant its own separate name. The stone has a bit of opaqueness and a bit of translucence to it; which adds even more mystery and drama to the already stunning gem.

Agate, which is a form of microcrystaline quartz, is generally found in what are referred to as "nodules." It isn't particularly difficult to mine but is still somewhat rare in nature.

The growing popularity of blue lace agate over the last decade has caused jewelers to go rather quickly through stockpiled quantities. With smaller amounts of the stone being mined each year, this is a gem that could be in danger of extinction should new deposits not be found in the near future.

Originally discovered in Namibia, South Africa, the best quality blue lace gems still come from there. However, the quantity of rough available from South Africa has been seriously depleted. Small amounts of the stone are also mined in Brazil, China, India, Malagasy, Uruguay, and the United States.

Blue lace agate ranks only a seven on the Mohs scale of hardness, which means that the stone is somewhat softer than many other gems. For this reason, it is primarily set within jewelry pieces that are less likely to take a beating. It is perfect for pendants and earrings, but less desirable for rings and bracelets.

The gem is rarely faceted. There is no need to do so, even if gem cutters were willing to take on the challenge. A cabochon of blue lace agate is stunning on its own. The gem polishes beautifully from a gentle "glow" to a high polished shine; meeting the wants and needs of almost any jewelry connoisseur.

I love the blue lace agate for its calming effect. I find myself feeling tranquil and at peace whenever I wear this particular stone. I'm slower to anger and remain on a more even keel. There is also something about the gem that is spiritual in nature. I really don't know how to explain it. Perhaps, it is simply something that you have to feel in order to understand its power.

Experts in the metaphysical believe that blue lace agate helps individuals to express their feelings as well as open all lines of communication. This includes improving public speaking, enhancing discussions, and even improving writing skills. It is believed that the stone has the power to inspire, promote intuition, offer peace of mind, and ease inner strife and tension.

The gem supposedly offers medicinal properties that can help cure stuttering and improve other speech problems. It is also used it to aid with arthritis, headaches, and digestion ailments as well as to improve growth and strengthen the bone structure.

Blue lace agate is related to the element of air and the zodiac sign of Pisces. The most popular, and rarest, of all agate stones, blue lace is a grounding stone that seeks to put its wearer in a state of comfort and ease. Many of those who wear it report that it brings them a feeling of peace and happiness. I certainly agree for it has that magical affect on me.

If you are looking for something rare, beautiful, and a bit out of the ordinary, blue lace agate might just fit the bill. At the very least, it should help you communicate better with your significant other, family member, or friend. That is a gift into itself.