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Mineral: quartz
Gem: imperial jasper
Size: 38 x 55 mm & 15 x 41 mm & 26 x 38 mm
Carat: 112+ ct & 25.8 ct & 29.8 ct
Cut: freeform cabochon(s)
Origin: Mexico
General Info: Jasper is derived from the Anglo-French "jaspre", meaning "spotted stone". Jasper is usually formed from old sediments (or volcanic ash flows) that have been glued (and at times replaced) with silica.

Flow patterns of the original material are often easy to see. Many jaspers are know as picture jasper because they contain what appear to be small images of sand dunes, mountains, plains, and even sky. Since the original materials were likely cross bedded sediments, they often contain the structure they mimic.

Additional Information
Imperial jasper comes from the Guadalahara area of Mexico. It is found in nodules and often contains the sought after egg patterns. It is a porcelain jasper and takes a fine polish. Its hues are usually in the red to red-pink, and various shades of green.

The pictured cabs were cut by the author.