Agate (Aqeeq) Stone Jewellery & Mesbah

What is agate (aqeeq) stone?

Agate is a banded variety of chalcedony, a fine-grained form of quartz. It forms when silica-rich water seeps into cavities in volcanic rock and settles layer by layer over long periods, which is why no two agate stones share the same bands. In Arabic it is called aqeeq (عقيق), also spelled akik, and it has been shaped into beads, seals and jewellery across the Arab world for centuries. Its English name is said to come from the Achates river in Sicily, where the ancient Greek writer Theophrastus described it.

The colours of agate

Agate comes in more colours than almost any other stone. Our collection carries black agate, white agate, red and orange agate, green agate, blue agate and grey agate. It also includes volcanic agate with its dark speckled surface, and tree agate, a white stone traced with green branch-like patterns. Black aqeeq is the shade most often chosen for men's pieces, while white and green agate suit lighter, everyday jewellery.

Agate meaning and benefits

In crystal tradition, agate is linked with steadiness, balance and calm, and it is associated with the zodiac sign Gemini. Black agate has long been carried as a stone of protection and strength. Aqeeq also holds a respected place in Arab heritage, often chosen for misbaha and keepsakes passed between generations. These are traditional meanings rather than medical claims.

How to clean and care for agate

Agate is a hard stone (6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale), so it resists everyday scratches well. Wipe it with a soft, slightly damp cloth and dry it straight away. Keep it away from perfume, harsh cleaners and long hours of direct sun, which can dull its colour, and store it apart from harder stones and metal. For an agate Mesbah, avoid soaking the strand so the braided thread stays strong.

Agate jewellery in Dubai at AtiQ & Jade

Choose from agate stone bracelets, fully beaded necklace and bracelet sets, silver gold-plated chain necklace and bracelet sets, and 33-bead agate Mesbah (masbaha or misbaha) with silver tassels. Every piece is handmade and arrives gift-boxed in our complimentary luxury packaging. Delivery across the UAE takes 1–2 days, free on orders over AED 350.