Royal Imperial Jasper, from Mexico, polished cabochon showing egg-patterning with secondary brecciation in shades of tan and mauve, with a semi-polished back.
23mm x 24mm
Imperial Jasper comes from central Mexico, near the border of Zacatecas and Jalisco and north of the city Guadalajara. It is known for the size of the jasper deposit, its formation in both veins and nodules, and its ability to form the "egg-patterning" found in only a handful of fine jaspers. Nodular pieces (which are highly associated with this patterning) are typically referred to as Royal Imperial Jasper. Horizontal banding, streamers, or 'spiderweb' patterns are also common. Classic colors for the material are green or dusty pink jasper, but it can skew to red, mauve purple, or even blue.
Cabochons: The Gem Shop, Inc. produces free form designer cabochons for the custom metal smith, hobbyist, and collector. All of the cabs shown are designed in our lapidary in. These cabs have a slightly beveled edge, buff (slightly curved) top, and flat back.