The Ellensburg Blue agate is regarded as the third rarest gemstone in the world. It is the only blue agate regarded as a “precious gemstone.” Ellensburg Blue agate is only found in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains northwest of Ellensburg, Washington, USA. Volcanic action, millions of years ago, has created a unique chemical reaction combining titanium and forty-two other trace elements which in turn gives it the color and hardness found in Ellensburg Blue agate.

Unfortunately only a very small percentage of the agates found are blue and an even smaller proportion are suitable for use in jewelry. What is unique about this gem is their beautiful blue sky color. These gems range in color from a light sky blue, cornflower blue, and royal blue and are sought after by collectors, jewelers, stone cutters and jewelry lovers alike. Researchers believe that the blue color comes from refracted light from tiny particles in the stone, which is similar to why the sky is blue itself.

One aspect that makes Ellensburg Blue agates different than other agates is their hardness. Ellensburg Blue agate has a Mohs hardness scale of 7.5 to 8.3 compared to most agates having a Mohs scale 7 hardness. 

Melody, in her world renowned book “Love is in the Earth” writes, “Ellensburg Blue agates can enhance one’s stature and bring happiness through self understanding. It provides the energy to allow one to fully appreciate one’s abilities, characteristics and situations. It is useful for opening and activating the throat chakra. It provides assistance in communication and speech. Ellensburg Blue agate has been used in the treatment of disorders of the throat and to improve eyes”.

Even though blue agates can be found around the world the Ellensburg Blue agates hold a special place because of their rarity and beauty. Top quality Ellensburg Blue agates are sold by the carat for hundreds of dollars.

By Neville Ryan

EarthGallery.com