Agates: A Collectors Guide to Origins Types Formation Grading and Buying Tips
Agates are among the most beloved gemstones in the world, prized for their striking bands, rich colors, and incredible variety. Found across the globe—from Brazil and Mexico to Botswana and the American Midwest—each type of agate tells a story of volcanic origins and slow silica deposition. This guide explores where agates are formed, the most popular varieties, how they are graded, and what to look for when buying, including tips on spotting dyed stones. Whether you’re a collector, lapidary artist, or curious beginner, agates offer endless beauty and geological fascination.