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Fire Agate

A layered stone, fire agate is a brown chalcedony, usually showing botryoidal growth, with layers of plate-like crystals of limonite alternating with layers of the chalcedony. Iridescent reds, golds, greens and purples are a result of the interplay of light between between the various layers.

Because of the degree of difficulty of cutting fire agate, it is not a well known stone in jewelry work. For the best play of color an overlying layer of chalcedony must be cut away to reveal a limonite layer,  the closer to one of the layers of limonite the cut is made the brighter the play of color.  However, accidentally cutting through the limonite layer leaves an unattractive brown spot where the underlying layer of chalcedony shows through.  Because of fire agate's botryoidal growth pattern a cabochon of well cut fire agate will have a freeform surface.  This, of course, requires that more time be devoted to each piece, diving up the cost of the finished stone.

Lore

Stones such as fire agate whose energies are connected to the earth are generally known for their healing qualities.  Fire agate is no exception.  It is said to be beneficial for stomach ache and is known to relieve severe stress.  "It has been used on the triple-burner acupressure/acupuncture meridians to dissolve blockages and to assist in the treatment of circulatory disorders and disorders of the central nervous system.  It can also be used in the treatment of disorders of the eyes, to bring clarity to the sight, and to enhance night-vision." ¹

Associated with courage, protection and enthusiasm, fire agate can help one in overcoming timidity to become more self assertive and expressive.

Sometimes called firestone, this form of agate is thought to be a heating stone that can help with colds and chills.

1)  A. Melody "Love is in the Earth- A Kaleidoscope of Crystals" pg. 33

George Frederick Kunz, America’s most famous gemologist , wrote a number of works on gem lore.