Agate is a relatively common stone that may be found around the world. Agate is a member of the chalcedony/ quartz family of stones. Agate comes in hundreds of different varieties and colours, including green moss agate, yellow moss agate, tree agate, carnelian agate, blue lace agate, banded agate, crazy lace agate, rosetta agate, Botswana agate, laguna agate, plume agate, green agate, plus many others, it would be impossible to name them all. Agates are believed to have been formed millions of years ago during volcanic eruptions. The volcanic lava flows left cavities filled with gas. As the flows cooled, these cavities allowed for mineral bearing solutions to enter and the combinations of these solutions along with heat, pressure and millions of years allowed the agate to form. Agate will resemble a potato on the outside, the stone must then be cut or sliced to see the beautiful colors inside. Agate is said to strengthen the body and mind and when worn will give the wearer a sense of courage. It is also said to be a powerful healer. Whatever your beliefs, may you enjoy your piece of agate. Gemstone skulls have a history full of mystery and intrigue. While we sell only the most beautiful skulls carved by artists around the world, modern carving practices, especially the carving of skulls, is done in homage to the mysteries of the past. The art of carving crystal skulls is a nod to tradition. There are perhaps a dozen rare crystal skulls discovered throughout the mid 19th century that have fueled intense interest and controversy among archaeologists, scientists, spiritualists, and museum officials for more than a century. Many believe these skulls were carved tens of thousands of years ago by an ancient Mesoamerican civilization because of the prominent use of skulls in ancient artwork, particularly among the Aztec. Several Aztec gods were represented by skulls, so crystal skulls likely invoked these gods as a symbol of regeneration. However, recent electron microscope analyses of skulls by the British Museum and the Smithsonian Institution revealed markings that could only have been made with modern carving implements. Both museums estimate that their skulls date to sometime in the mid to late 1800s, a time when public interest in ancient cultures was high and museums were eager for pieces to display. There is passion on both sides, and the fact remains that no one knows for sure who made these skulls and when, and since there is currently no way to accurately determine the age of such inorganic objects, the mystery will likely continue. This crystal skull is a product of modern-day artists from around the world. It was carved by hand, utilizing as much raw stone material as possible. Often the artist will incorporate unique attributes of the stone into the carving process to create entirely unique skulls.
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