Jasper is an opaque variety of microcrystalline silica. Silica includes all compounds of SIO2 with different amounts of water and is therefore considered a variety of quartz. The three main varieties of silica are opal, jasper and chalcedony.
Jasper is recognized by its granular microcrystalline structure and by the eye by its opaque appearance and conchoidal fracture.
Because there are various origins, since they are associated with very different rocks, each one will show a characteristic pattern. Regarding the colors, the varieties are infinite due to the small impurities mainly of iron and manganese, and also of other elements.
Jaspers were highly appreciated by man already in prehistory where they were used to create arrowheads thanks to their tenacity. Today they are still highly appreciated by lapidaries for their excellent polishing which allows the creation not only of magnificent ornamental objects but also pieces for jewelry such as cabochons and beads and beautiful collection specimens.
The only genetic classification of jaspers that exists today has been carried out by Marco Campos Venuti, graduate in Geology and PhD in Volcanology, widely explained in his book “Genesis and Classification of Agates and Jaspers: a new theory“, for sale on this website.
This classification organizes the types of Jaspers into four large groups based on their origins:
- Oceanic Jaspers (organogenic sedimentation): flints, abyssal jaspers and banded Iron Formation (BIF).
- Volcanic Jaspers (silicification of volcanic rocks): stratified jaspers, massive blocky jaspers and rhyolitic jaspers.
- Pseudomorphic jaspers on fossil (silicification of fossils).
- Chemical Jaspers (chemical precipitation): orbed jaspers, brecciated jaspers and jasp-agates.
Orbicular Ocean Jasper is found in the Mahajanga Province, in northwestern Madagascar.
Ocean Jasper was first described by Lacroix in 1922 and then the location was actually lost for almost 80 years! It hit the Tucson Gem Show in 2000 and quickly became famous. Today only low quality is dug and the nice colors and the neat orbicular pattern of this cabochon are just memories from the past.
Orbicular jaspers are formed by devitrification process on obsidian lava flow. The shape of the deposit itself remember that of a lava flow, but it was completely transformed into jasper.
Today ocean jasper is one of the highest prized jasper and is difficult to obtain good cutting rough.
Features of this piece:
- Guaranteed authenticity: 100% natural Orbicular Ocean Jasper of guaranteed origin.
- Color and appearance: Killer old time Ocean Jasper designer cabochon. Amazing colors, nice orbicular pattern.
- Hardness: 6.5 – 7 on the Mohs scale.
- Cut: Tongue-shaped cabochon. Professionally cut in USA.
Energy properties:
Jasper is considered a stone of protection, stability and vitality:
• It strengthens resistance and mental focus, favoring decision making.
• It promotes connection with the Earth, balancing the body and mind.
• It is known as a stone of support in difficult times, providing security and confidence.
Discover the magic of natural gemstones
Our natural gems have been meticulously selected for their quality, beauty and authenticity. Each piece has unique characteristics, making them perfect for collectors, artisan jewelers, stone lovers, and those seeking spiritual balance.
Details that make the difference
• 100% natural gemstones of guaranteed origin. We control the entire process, from the purchase of the rough by expert mineralogists, geologists and gemologists, to its cutting in our trusted lapidary.
• Ideal for jewelers: enhances the exclusivity of your designs.
• Attractive for collectors: unique pieces with exceptional details.
• Perfect for therapies: they channel energy and balance.
Why choose us
We offer pieces that combine aesthetics, energy and quality and that have been carefully selected so that you can enjoy the best in natural gemstones.
