The “Ellensburg Blue” Agate
Found only in the northwest corner of the lower Kittitas Valley, near Ellensburg, is the unique stone known throughout America as the “Ellensburg Blue.”
What makes it unique and much sought after? The answers to this question can be summed up in several words. Scarcity, color range, variety, hardness and adaptability to a variety of settings.
The scarcity of the stone is such that finding even the smallest of pieces is considered a good day’s find. Most all of the land where "Ellensburg Blue” is found is private and inaccessible.
Color of the “Ellensburg Blue” ranges from a light sky blue through a cornflower blue to an almost purple royal blue. Clouds, streaks, or bands may occur in the agate and graduates from nearly opaque to transparent.
The hardness of any stone is measured on the MOHs scale of 1 to 10. One being Talc and ten diamond. Using this measurement, “Ellensburg Blue” will test out at from 7.5 to 8.3 or harder on the scale.
Because of its singular qualities and limited quantity, the “Ellensburg Blue” has been re-classified by many gemologists to be a precious gem. For additional information and photographs of Ellensburg Blue Agate, visit www.BlueAgates.com
