Dendritic agate (also called 'Moss Agate") is not banded, and therefore not strictly an agate, although still referred to as such. It's a mineral of the quartz family. It is clear to milky white, with dendritic inclusions of manganese or iron that has grown into patterns similar to trees, seaweed, or lightning strikes. The Ancients believed it to aid in agricultural success, burying it in the soil where crops were planted and using as an amulet when journeying across land. Agates have been used in jewelry for centuries, initially worn as protection against illness and evil. During the Victorian era, the Queen took a shine to the stone, and Scottish agate became the rage.
Rolled gold is a technique used frequently during the nineteenth century in which a thin layer of gold is placed over a base metal, such as silver or brass. This wonderful moss agate brooch is set in a beautifully ornate rolled gold frame. The stone gives the impression of a landscape at dusk, or perhaps sunrise. An intriguing unisex piece from Mother Earth herself!
Note: the brooch has been photographed with a piece of white paper behind it in order to show the moss agate pattern.
Details (approximate)
Dimensions: 2.5"
Weight: 13.7 grams
Materials: Rolled Gold; Moss Agate (Dendritic Agate)
Marks: None
Condition: Excellent Antique condition commensurate with age and wear