Botswana Agate

Grounding • Stabilizing • Calm • Protective • Problem-solving

Energetic properties

Botswana agate provides grounding, stability, and protection. It promotes inner peace and a calm, down-to-earth attitude. The stone stimulates spiritual and mental growth, as well as logical and rational thinking. It encourages determination, goal-oriented action, and helps in seeing the bigger picture. It also stimulates creativity and a desire for freedom. This comforting stone is very suitable for sensitive individuals and children. Physically, Botswana agate has a positive effect on circulation and the skin. It is often used in gemstone therapy and for decorative purposes such as jewelry making.

Suitable for children from about 2 years old.

Formation

This stone forms in African volcanoes, with the earliest traces of Botswana agate dating back over 187 million years. The agate formed from volcanic flows, not from mountainous volcanoes, but from lava seeping through cracks and fissures, depositing chalcedony crystals underground.

Its distinctive banded pattern originated from lava waves that, over millions of years, slowly washed over agate stone, layering quartz and silica onto the rock. Under weight, pressure, and intense heat, agate veins formed in multiple layers, creating the characteristic and unique striped patterns. Botswana agate is sometimes regarded as superior due to the nearly perfect bands it displays, combined with its limited availability.

Etymology

The stone is named after its origin; Botswana agate is mined in the Bobonong district of Botswana, Africa.

Care

It's a relatively hard and durable crystal and doesn’t require special care. It can be cleaned under running water and gently patted dry with a soft cloth. It may also be cleansed and recharged using sage, incense, moonlight, or an orgonite charging disk.

Because Botswana agate can be somewhat porous, it may discolor or become damaged when exposed to harsh chemicals like cleaning products or perfumes. It's best to avoid wearing the stone while handling such substances.

Origin

Botswana, southern Africa.

Availability

Relatively rare, especially compared to other types of agate. This is because it is only found in a few locations within Botswana, particularly in the Mookane and Kasane regions.

Its availability may also be affected by factors such as mining restrictions, environmental regulations, and economic conditions. Some grades of Botswana agate, particularly those with the most intense colors and patterns, are rarer and therefore more valuable on the gemstone and mineral market.

In general, this gemstone is not easy to find, but it is not impossible to obtain. It is important, however, to verify its authenticity and purchase from a trustworthy source.

Properties

Composition: SiO₂
Hardness: 6-7
Density: 2.6

Associated with Botswana Agate