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Mineral: quartz
Gem: ocean jasper
Size: 40 mm x 50 mm
Carat:
Cut: polished slab
Origin: Madagascar
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
Ocean jasper comes from Madagascar coast. It is sometimes a jasper and sometimes an agate, with certain pieces displaying both properties. The name comes from the locale as it was discovered at or slightly under the sea. It is mined a low tide and the mine is rumored to be about played out (at least that which can still be obtained at low tide). It contains a variety of rhyolitic spheres and orbs which give it its distinctive look. It comes in just about all colors of the rainbow. The more agatized (translucent variety) commands a premium price, often exceeding $50 for 5"x 6" slab.
Closeups of dots on different Ocean Jaspers Closeups of dots on different Ocean Jaspers