Meaning & Definition of word "Agate"

Agate

/ˈæɡ.eɪt/

1. A type of mineral, specifically a variety of chalcedony, characterized by its fineness, translucency, and often banded colors.
- Example: She wore a beautiful pendant made of blue agate that complemented her dress.
2. A gemstone that is often used in jewelry and is valued for its decorative patterns and colors.
- Example: The artisan crafted a ring featuring a large piece of agate with striking red and white bands.
3. A type of ornamental stone often used in carvings and sculptures.
- Example: The statue was carved from agate, showcasing intricate details and vibrant colors.

From Latin 'achates', derived from the Greek 'akhates', the name of a river in Sicily where the stone was found.

agate world:

A term used to refer to the community or market of agate collectors and enthusiasts.

agate layers:

Refers to the distinct bands of color found within an agate stone.

chalcedony:

A cryptocrystalline variety of silica consisting of very fine intergrowths of quartz and moganite.

quartz:

A hard, crystalline mineral composed of silica, widely used in jewelry.

Meaning: Refers to an item or object that is of no real value, often used jokingly.

Example Sentence: Don't bother with that old agate, it's just a piece of rock.

Meaning: A term used among gem enthusiasts to describe a particularly unattractive piece of agate.

Example Sentence: That one's a real agate, not worth my time.