BY ANTOINETTE RAHN

This agate from Patagonia helps illustrate the allure of agates. The half banded agate prompts consideration of three questions about agate genesis: How does the pattern of concentric bands form? What is the nature and origin of the radial channels that connect the exterior of the nodule with the interior (as indicated by arrows)? And how do the bands attain different intense colors? (JOE DEHMER)

Joe Dehmer

It’s not every day that wisdom from revered Chinese philosopher Confucius describes the life one has led, versus the life one aspires to lead.

However, retired physicist Joe Dehmer is someone whose approach to life and career aptly reflects the advice, “Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life.” Now in retirement, Dehmer applies the same philosophy to his pursuit of acquiring specimens and knowledge about agates and jaspers. During the International Exposition of Agate, slated for June 6-9 in Austin, Texas, Dehmer will speak about one of his favorite subjects: agate genesis.