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Description
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Bumblebee jasper cab ~
Offered here is a striking cabochon of bumble bee jasper, recently imported from Indonesia. After slicing some of this extraordinary material in my slab saw, it doesn't seem hard enough to be either a jasper or an agate. Once polished, it has a somewhat waxy feel, a lot like onyx does. For sure, it cuts FANTASTIC cabs! In this example, the lighter diagonal band shows some translucence, and the lacy yellow band alongside it has a hint of chatoyance. The brilliant yellows really catch the eye, in strong contrast to the black bands. The two colors blend in places, resulting in attractive greenish hues. I read on the importer's website that this material is harvested near the steaming calderas of Mount Papandayan, an active volcano, where locals collect native sulfur! So that seems to explain the vivid yellow colors. Whatever it turns out to be, I think this new bumble bee 'jasper' has great designer potential! The cab has a high rounded dome of 6mm, a bold designer 'diamond' shape, and a slick glossy polish both front and back.
Size: 49x22mm
Weight: approximately 36 carats
Price: SOLD See current gemstones for sale
 Bumblebee jasper
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