Collection: Agate

Agate Origin: Sicily

Colour: There are many colours, but the most prevalent are green, pink, brown, blue and black

Birthstone for: June

Chakra zone: Heart & Throat

Best for: Stability, protection and emotional security

From the Babylonians to the medieval times – and right up to the present day – agate has been used to protect against bad energy and natural disasters. In Chinese medicine it was traditionally used to clear negative thoughts; nowadays, it is still considered to have powers of protection, as well as the capacity to unblock emotional centres to help release tension in the heart and the throat, thus improving emotional connection and helping you to find your voice – both literally and figuratively. Also known as silicon dioxide, and part of the chalcedony family, there are many varieties of agate. Its name comes from the river Achates in Sicily, where fragments of it were first discovered among Neolithic remains.

CRYSTAL TIPS Make an elixir by dropping a piece of agate into a glass of tap water; allow its positive energies to permeate the liquid, before taking out the crystal and drinking the water. The gentle energy that radiates from the crystal will disperse around your body as you drink, invoking a sense of calm and inner peace.

Place pieces of agate around your bedroom to balance emotional and sexual energy.

Wear an agate pendant as a protective talisman for potentially difficult or emotionally charged situations, such as meeting an ex-partner or taking an exam.