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.