Agate is a brightly-colored microcrystalline variety of silica found most commonly in volcanic rock. Found at the Knossos site on Crete, it’s believed to have been a chief material used by the Minoan civilization during the Bronze Age. Today, it and its likeness are used in kitchens and bathrooms, harnessing the complexities of its visual appeal.
Found in more than a dozen varieties, agate is striking enough in small doses, but it’s most arresting when presented in macro form via a wall mural or decorative hanging, or when used in great measure to create a sink or full vanity.
The example below illustrates agate’s beauty when thoughtfully backlit and presented as a mosaic. Not typically found through large-scale home renovation retailers, it’s generally used in custom projects completed by professional interior designers. Its rarity, to some degree, comprises the basis of its mysterious allure, as well as its conversation-worthiness.
Photo credits: Stonesmiths.com, HGTV, In Style Decor and CGL Granite.
I do like agate, it seems a little overwhelming in the countertop form though!
Hi – I agree…I think that the countertop above is a little overwhelming. But agate is beautiful and natural and you can’t beat nature when you are designing a bathroom. I do love agate when it is lit from underneath…that’s a very modern and wonderful look.
I’m a decorative artist by trade – and I was recently asked by Newsday – a Long Island publication – to submit several pictures of bathrooms that I have done for an article on unusual and beautiful bathrooms. I will tell the reporter about this article.
Thanks for posting!
Linda