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Ch. 6: Ruby, Sapphire, Spinel etc.

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170                          Agate.
The mocha- or moko-stone is a variety containing in­filtrated dendritic oxides of manganese and iron, which give it the appearance of containing vegetable remains. It is found in Arabia, and is said to derive its name from Mocha; others suppose the name mocha-stone to be a corruption of moschas, or moss-stone.
Agate.
The agate (another variety of chalcedony) is of dif­ferent colours, arranged in bands of various thicknesses, often variegated in small masses in a matrix of chal­cedony. When the lines are thin and zigzag, it is called fortification agate, from its fancied resemblance to the outlines of a fortification; when in nearly straight lines, it is called ribbon agate; when containing appa­rent marks of vegetation, moss agate.
This stone is manufactured into articles of utility as well as ornament; it is much used for making bur­nishers, mortars for chemical purposes, balances of scales (where great nicety is desired), cups, vases, seal-handles, etc. It may be coloured artificially, in the same manner as the onyx.
The principal manufactories are at Oberstein, where, however, the supply has fallen off. The rough stones are now brought from the Brazils, India, Australia, etc., coming to Hamburg and other ports in ships with light cargoes as ballast. The numerous specimens termed Brighton, Isle of Wight, Aberystwith, and Irish pebbles,
Ch. 6: Ruby, Sapphire, Spinel etc. Page of 295 Ch. 6: Ruby, Sapphire, Spinel etc.
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