No gemstone is more creatively striped by nature than agate, which forms in concentric layers in a wide variety of colors and textures. The bands sometimes look like eyes, sometimes fanciful scallops, or even a landscape scene.
Agate was highly valued as a talisman or amulet in ancient times. It was said to quench thirst and protect from fevers. Persian magicians used agate to divert storms. Agate bowls were also popular in the byzantine empire. Collecting agate bowls became common among european royalty during the renaissance and many museums in europe, including the louvre, have spectacular examples.