Tumbled Tree Agate

Tree agate is also known as dendritic agate. Dendrites are crystal inclusions that develop in foliage or tree branch-like patterns. In tree agate, these dendrites create a beautiful green dappling effect on a white base. This beautiful green and white stone has long been seen as having a deep connection to nature and was therefore viewed as the stone of plentitude by many civilizations. The ancient Greeks associated tree agate with dryads and the stone was sometimes buried in agricultural fields to promote a plentiful harvest. The name agate itself harkens back to antiquity and the Achates River in Sicily where agates are thought to have been found. At least 3000 years ago, the Egyptians were making seals, rings and vessels from agate stones. Agate was not just a decorative stone and was long used as talismans in Egypt, Greece and India.