Moss agate was one of the first stones I fell in love with. Each one I looked into seemed to have a whole world in it that was completely different from the last one. Even today, I still love moss agate, and buy lots, because it’s so cool (even though I don’t actually need it) !
Moss agate has been known since ancient times when it was used as a warrior’s amulet for strength and victory. It is also a healer’s stone and is considered to be a stone of the archangel Raphael, who is the angel of healing. It is the “gardener’s stone” and encourages growth and health in plants, which makes it the perfect stone for spring. Some water and fertilizer doesn’t hurt either! Because moss agate is a stone of abundance, it is good for attracting wealth, and is very good for small business.
Moss agate corresponds to the heart chakra and gives balance, stability and peace. It links us to nature and to the Earth. It is also called “mocha stone” and no, I don’t know why. It certainly doesn’t seem like a delicious hot drink. Maybe you’re supposed to wear it when you’re drinking a mocha to ward off coffee-related accidents!
Moss agate is not a true agate, but is actually a clear to milky white chalcedony with dendritic inclusions of manganese or iron oxide. These inclusions are usually green, but can also be yellowish orange or red as well. Because it is is a member of the quartz family, it is 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale. This makes it a great stone for jewelry because of its durability. When you are choosing a moss agate, take your time and look at each stone carefully to find the one that really speaks to you. You can also use an accent stone with it to pull out the main colour of the inclusions. How about B.C. jade with green moss agate, citrine with yellowish orange or rainbow jasper with red? There are lots of stones that you can use as an accent and you may be surprised at what looks good together.
As for metals, I love silver with moss agate. I am something of a silver fiend, but I really do think that silver shows off moss agate well, because it doesn’t compete with either the colour or the beautiful patterns. However, if you feel compelled to try other metals, do. One of the best things about making jewelry is the opportunity to create something completely unique.
See you out in the garden in your moss agate!