Angelite and blue lace agate are two types of gemstones with distinct characteristics. While they can look somewhat similar at first glance, there are a lot of differences to be aware of.
In today’s guide, let’s talk about the many differences between angelite and blue lace agate.
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What is the difference between angelite and blue lace agate?
Chemical composition: Angelite is a type of anhydrite mineral that contains calcium sulfate. It belongs to the sulfate mineral group and is formed from the evaporation of saltwater lakes. Blue lace agate, on the other hand, is a variety of chalcedony, which is a form of quartz mineral. It contains silica dioxide and is formed from the deposition of silica-rich fluids in cavities or fractures in rocks.
Color: Both of these stones are known for their distinctive colors. Angelite is typically light blue to white in color, sometimes displaying a bluish-gray or creamy white hue. The lighter color that you see is due to the presence of copper within the crystal structure. Blue lace agate is predominantly light blue with white banding. This banding that you see is caused by other minerals, such as quartz and chalcedony, which can form layers of colors.
Formation: Angelite is formed from the evaporation of saltwater lakes. During formation, angelite precipitates out of the water and then forms larger crystals that can be extracted from the surrounding rock. Blue lace agate, on the other hand, is formed from the deposition of silica-rich fluids in cavities or fractures in rocks. Over time, fluids cool and harden into solid masses of chalcedony with distinct banding patterns. The blue lace agate formation process is much slower, sometimes taking millions of years.
Hardness: Angelite has a Mohs hardness of 3.5, making it relatively soft, and it’s the main reason it’s only used for decorative purposes. Being this soft means it can be scratched easily. Blue lace agate has a hardness of 7, making it much harder and more durable gemstone, often being found as jewelry. If you’re unfamiliar with the Mohs scale of hardness, this will determine how resistant a stone is to scratching. The higher the number, the more durable it will be.
Luster: Both have different types of luster, which refers to the way light reflects off the surface. Angelite is usually a dull to vitreous luster, which means it has a low level of shine and reflects the light in a scattered way. This is mainly due to the stone’s soft texture and the presence of impurities. Blue lace agate has a waxy to vitreous luster, which means it has a higher level of shine. This allows the stone to reflect in a more uniform way due to the harder texture.
Origin: Angelite is primarily found in Peru, where it was first discovered, as well as Mexico. You can find deposits near saltwater lakes and other evaporite deposits. Blue lace agate is primarily found in Namibia as well as other parts of South Africa, Brazil and the United States.
Transparency: Angelite is typically opaque, which means that light will not pass through. Mostly, the surface will be dull or have a glass-like shine. Blue lace agate will usually be translucent, which means that light can partially pass through, allowing for some visibility. The translucency levels can vary from stone to stone, with some crystals being much more opaque than others. Usually, you will find that blue lace agate is often prized for jewelry because when cut into smaller slices, it allows light to pass through, showcasing its delicate colors and patterns.
Healing Properties: Angelite is believed to help with communication, spirituality, and balancing energies, as it aligns with the throat chakra. It’s also said to help have calming effects on the mind, body and soul, which is said to help reduce stress. It’s a very popular crystal used for meditation practices. Blue lace agate is believed to help with communication, self-expression, and emotional healing. It promotes inner peace, reduces negative energies as well as creates a soothing feeling. It’s also associated with the throat chakra, as it’s said to be one of the better communicative stones.
Metaphysical: Angelite is said to promote peace and raise your consciousness. As it’s associated with your throat chakra, it can help promote your communication, self expression and allow you to speak your throat. It’s a stone filled with compassion, helping you create a deep feeling of peace. Blue lace agate, on the other hand, is a cooling and calming stone, also bringing you a sense of peace. It’s a powerful communicative stone as well, which is said to help bring you support.
Zodiac: Blue lace agate is associated with Pisces whereas blue calcite is associated with Aquarius.
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