Sublime Aqeeq (Agate)

EXPERIENCE HISTORY: SUBLIME AQEEQ (AGATE)

Discover the captivating world of agate, known as ʿaqeeq or sulemani. Explore its diverse translucent colors, warm patterns, and rich origins, primarily formed within volcanic and metamorphic rocks, composed of chalcedony and quartz.

THE YEMENI LEGACY OF AGATE

Yemeni agate stands out for its exceptional quality and beauty, gracing various items such as rings, pendants, bracelets, prayer beads, sword and dagger handles, and even crowns.

THE NAME AGATE: ROOTED IN ANCIENT HISTORY

The name "agate" traces its origins to the Ancient Greek "Achates," denoting a river in southwestern Sicily where this remarkable stone was first discovered by the philosopher and naturalist Theophrastus, between the 4th and 3rd centuries BCE.

THE GLOBAL SOURCE OF AGATE

Agate is sourced from around the world, from India to Scotland, Namibia, Madagascar, Mexico, the United States, and more. Iran has a longstanding reputation for quality agate, while Brazil serves as a primary source today.

AQEEQ (AGATE): A STONE WITH A RICH HISTORY

The history of agate stretches back millennia, with artifacts like polished agate necklaces dating to the 3rd millennium BCE in the Indus Valley Civilization. In Ancient Greece, warriors used agate in jewelry and seal stones. Its durability has made it a favored material for various objects, from pins and brooches to inkstands and paper knives. Additionally, agate has industrial applications, including the production of mortars, pestles, leather-burnishing tools, and knife-edge bearings for precision instruments.

AQEEQ (AGATE) IN THE ISLAMIC TRADITION

The Prophet Muhammad wore a signet ring on His right hand, featuring a silver setting with an Abyssinian stone, believed to be agate or onyx. He used this ring to seal official correspondence to dignitaries. The Prophet's companions, including Caliphs Abu Bakr, ʿUmar, and ʿUthman, continued to use the ring for official matters. Unfortunately, ʿUthman lost the ring in the well of Aris in Madina, which was considered an ill-fated omen.

The esteemed scientist al-Biruni mentions khamaahan, a stone believed to be agate, used by bookbinders for polishing gold. He also references agate mines in Cairo's Mukattam hills.

EMBRACE THE LEGACY OF AQEEQ (AGATE)

Explore our collection of sublime Aqeeq (agate) items and bring the rich heritage and beauty of this stone into your life.

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