Lake Superior agate facts for kids
The Lake Superior agate is a special kind of agate gemstone. You can find these beautiful rocks along the shores of Lake Superior. Their amazing colors come from iron minerals. These unique colors and patterns tell a story about how the gemstone formed in Minnesota. In 1969, the Lake Superior agate was chosen by the Minnesota Legislature to be the official state gemstone.
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What Makes Lake Superior Agates Special?
Lake Superior agates are famous for their rich, warm colors. These colors include shades of red, orange, yellow, and brown. They often have cool bands or stripes. These stripes are what make agates so popular with collectors.
Its Unique Colors
The bright colors of the Lake Superior agate come from iron minerals. When these minerals mix with the agate, they create a beautiful stained-glass effect. The more iron present, the deeper the red and orange colors become. This makes each agate a unique piece of art from nature.
Where They Are Found
As their name suggests, these agates are mostly found around the Lake Superior region. This includes parts of Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, and even Ontario in Canada. They are often found on beaches, in riverbeds, or in gravel pits. People love to search for them, especially after storms.
How Lake Superior Agates Were Made
The story of how Lake Superior agates formed is very old. It goes back over a billion years! It involves ancient volcanoes and the movement of water.
Volcanoes and Water
Long, long ago, huge volcanoes erupted in the Lake Superior area. They poured out hot, liquid rock called lava. As this lava cooled, it formed many tiny gas bubbles. Over time, water carrying dissolved minerals seeped into these bubbles. These minerals slowly hardened, layer by layer, to form the agate.
The Iron Connection
The iron that gives the agates their color was also present in the ancient rocks. As water flowed through the ground, it picked up tiny bits of iron. This iron then got trapped inside the forming agates. This is why so many Lake Superior agates have those famous red and orange bands.
Minnesota's Official State Gemstone
In 1969, the Lake Superior agate became the official state gemstone of Minnesota. This was an important decision made by the state's lawmakers.
Why It Was Chosen
The Minnesota Legislature is the group of people who make laws for the state. They chose the Lake Superior agate because it is very common in Minnesota. It also has a strong connection to the state's natural history. It's a way to celebrate the unique geology and beauty of the region.
Images for kids
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Lake Superior Agate - Duluth, Minnesota
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A cabochon of Lake Superior agate
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Lake Superior Agate set in 14k gold
