Description
Large Polished Slice of Dulcote Agate, 12cm wide
This large polished slice of Dulcote Agate is a lovely example of this Somerset agate. This slice has been cut from a nodule and polished on each side. The wavy ‘botryoidal’ patterns of this beautiful British Agate have typical orange/pink colours. In the centre there is a small area of white quartz crystals. Sometimes referred to as ‘Somerset Potato Stone’ this slice would be an excellent addition to any collection of British Minerals.
Dulcote Quarry is in the Mendip Hills but sadly closed a number of years ago. The quarry was famous in its day for producing some of the finest Agate specimens in the UK. The Agate Nodules that occur in this area near Wells in Somerset were formed in red marly clays overlying the Carboniferous Limestone. They date back to the Triassic Period around 200 million years ago. At this time this area was near the equator with a tropical climate.
Agates commonly occur in nodules within volcanic and metamorphic rocks. Gas bubbles trapped within the cooling rocks leave cavities which are then filled by water containing silica. As the layers of silica build up they create the typical bands of colour within. When the silica isn’t able to completely penetrate the cavity, they result in hollow crystal lined geodes. The principal components of the different varieties of agate are quartz and chalcedony. The colourful varieties of agate frequently seen in jewellery include, Moss Agate, Blue Lace Agate and also Green Agate.
Metaphysically, a stone famous for its soothing and for its calming abilities. This is a stone for eliminating negative energies and transforming negativity into positivity. Additionally it can also help to increase concentration and perception.
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