Scotland is a leading source of agate (from the family Chalcedony, a type of quartz). The stone is translucent, comes in many colors, and has distinctive banding including white and clear portions. Agate was formed within the crevices of ancient volcanic lava flows, though the loose "nodules" can be found along Scotland's eastern beaches, in plowed fields, or within cliffside crevices. Agate comes in many natural colors and also sometimes is dyed artificially.
The Scots have been using agate decoratively and as a "talisman" since prehistoric times. They are thought to provide stability, balance, good luck and protection. Their use reached the peak of fashionable popularity in Victorian jewelry. But agates have always been prized as a cultural icon amongst the Scots (and by those who love all things Scottish).
The set of six Scottish Art Deco chromed cocktail picks, shown here, are fitted with green banded agate handles. They have a twisted shaft, topped with a "bident" fork. They were made in the Thirties, a means of presenting and serving bite-sized items like olives, cheese cubes or the shrimp in a shrimp cocktail. Click on the photo above to learn more about these handsome implements.
Though our Greenwich Village store is now permanently closed, LEO Design is still alive and well! Please visit our on-line store where we continue to sell Handsome Gifts (www.LEOdesignNYC.com).
To arrange a visit our Pittsburgh showroom (by private appointment only), please call 917-446-4248.