Buying Agate: 5 Things to Keep in Mind Before You Buy
Introduction
So you’re interested in buying agate? Great! There are a few things you should keep in mind before making your purchase. Below, we’ll go over five key points to consider when buying agate.
What to Look for When Buying an Agate
When buying agate, it’s important to look for stones that have a good color balance and are free of inclusions. Inclusions are marks or blemishes on the surface of the stone, and they can lower its value.
A good way to test for inclusions is to hold the stone up to the light. If you can see marks or lines on the surface, the stone is likely not as high quality as you would want.
Agate also comes in a variety of colors, so it’s important to choose stones that have a color you like. Some of the most popular colors include black, blue, green and red agate.
Evaluate for Quality and Authenticity
When looking for agate gemstones, it is important to evaluate for quality and authenticity. The most important factor in determining quality is the color of the agate. Agate can come in a variety of colors, so it is important to select one that is high in quality and has a beautiful color.
In addition, it is important to look for agates that are free of inclusions and fractures. Inclusions are small bits of other materials that are trapped within the agate, while fractures are lines or cracks in the gemstone.
It is also important to make sure that the agate has been properly cut and polished. The cut of a gemstone affects its symmetry and how sparkly it appears. A well-polished gemstone will have a high shine and no scratches.
Understand the Different Colors and Varieties of Agate
There are several different colors and varieties of agate, so it’s important to understand what you’re buying before you make a purchase.
Some of the most popular colors include:
– Blue agate, which has a calming effect and is said to help with communication problems.
– Brown agate, which is thought to be a grounding stone that helps with centering oneself.
– Black agate, which is known as a protective stone that can shield you from negative energy.
– Green agate, which is thought to be a lucky stone that brings good fortune.
– Pink agate, which is said to be a gentle and calming stone.
It’s also important to understand the different types of agate. Some of the most common varieties include:
– Eye agate, which is named for the way its patterns resemble eyes. This type of agate is said to increase intuition and help with spiritual growth.
– Moss agate, which has a green color and a puffy appearance that resembles moss. This type of agate is thought to bring good luck, abundance and prosperity.
– Fortification agate, which is named for its resemblance to the walls of a fort. This type of agate is said to boost energy and vitality.
Setting Your Budget When Buying an Agate
The fourth thing you’ll want to keep in mind is setting a budget when buying an agate. This is actually one of the key things that will determine the type of stone you end up with.
Now, the truth is that agates can be very expensive, depending on the quality and type you want to buy. However, there are also lower-priced options as well as some mid-priced agates out there, too. So decide how much you’re willing to spend and stick with it so you don’t end up overspending.
When it comes to quality, remember that the clarity and saturation of an agate are both important for determining its value and worth. As a general rule of thumb, the better clarity and saturation an agate has, the more expensive it will be. So just keep this in mind when setting your budget!
Questions to Ask Before Making a Purchase
When it comes to buying agate, you want to make sure that you’re well informed before making a purchase. Here are some questions to ask the seller before you buy:
– What type of agate is this? (Fancy jasper, moss agate, blue lace agate, etc).
– Where was this stone sourced from? Is it ethically sourced?
– Is the stone dyed or treated in any way?
– Is there a certificate of authenticity for this stone?
– Are there any potential negative effects from wearing the stone (if applicable)?
It’s also important to check out reviews from other customers who have bought from the same seller. After all, you want to know that the product you’re getting is genuine and of good quality. Plus, these reviews can help provide an insight into what kind of customer service and experience they offer.
Knowing the Right Areas to Buy High Quality Agates
Always be aware of the areas from which you are buying your agate. Certain regions produce agates of better quality than others. Brazil, India and Madagascar; for instance, are known for producing some of the highest-quality gemstones in the world. If a store or online shop claims to offer agates from these countries, it is important to perform additional research to ensure that they are genuine and not fake knockoffs.
Also bear in mind that agates have been around since ancient times and can be found in many places around the world. So if you’re interested in a particular type of gemstone, it might be worth researching where it’s mined or harvested from so you can get the best quality possible. Knowing a bit of geography can definitely come in handy here.
Finally, some countries have long-standing traditions of working with and trading agates, such as the Chinese culture which has been using them for centuries for jewelry-making and adorning magic crystals called ‘fu birds’. Buying your gems from one of these countries may give you greater access to varieties and higher-quality options.
From where to buy?
No matter if you are buying online or offline, it is essential that you pick the right place to buy your agate gemstone. Always ensure that when you purchase the gemstone, it comes with a certificate of authenticity and a guarantee of its quality. Research the reputation of the seller before making your purchase, and look for any reviews or customer feedback that can be found online.
If buying online, it’s best to buy from trusted and established vendors like NN Exports who are known for their quality agate gemstones. They also offer a wide range of shapes, sizes, and colors. It’s worth noting that their customer service is top-notch too—they’ll be able to answer any questions or enquiries you may have about their product range. So make sure to check them out if you’re looking for agate gems!