Round cabochon of polychrome jasper from Germany, Ø 17 mm diameter and 4.6 mm height. Dark bluish-gray background with flowing amber and gold veins. Beveled edge and flat back. Hand-carved in our workshop from German rough.
Item details
| Mineral |
Polychrome Jasper (microcrystalline quartz, multicolor variety) |
| Dimensions |
Ø 17 mm × 4.6 mm height. Variation of ±0.5 mm due to being hand-carved. |
| Shape and back |
Round, beveled edge (bevel/chamfer), flat polished back |
| Finish |
Mirror polish |
| Hardness |
6.5–7 Mohs — very resistant; suitable for rings and pendants without special precautions |
| Origin |
Germany (rough from German lapidary) |
| Treatment |
No treatment |
| Item type |
Unique piece |
This particular piece
The jasper in this cabochon has a surface where dark bluish-gray and amber-gold veins meet in balanced proportions, with no single area completely dominating. When rotated under light, the iron oxide veins change in tone between a warm amber and a more muted ochre, depending on the angle. The round shape amplifies the visual effect: the eye follows the path of the veins along the diameter as if they were rivers on a map.
The beveled edge replaces the classic dome: the stone is relatively flat (4.6 mm high for 17 mm in diameter) and the lapidary opted for a chamfer that cleanly frames the surface without adding profile. A 17 mm round with a bevel works particularly well as a central cabochon for a statement ring where the perimeter of the setting can align with the beveled edge.
What setting it works for
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Bezel setting (925 silver or other precious metals) — the 17 mm round is a prominent size for a statement ring; its hardness of 6.5–7 Mohs allows for open or closed settings
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Rings with silver or copper settings — the contrast of the amber pattern on dark gray is particularly striking with brushed silver or oxidized copper
-
Wire wrap — the beveled edge provides a clean plane for the perimeter grip of the wire
German polychrome jasper
Idar-Oberstein, in Rhineland-Palatinate (Germany), was for centuries the lapidary heart of Europe. Its artisans developed carving and polishing techniques for jasper, agate, and quartz that were exported worldwide, and the availability of high-quality rough on the German market is a direct heritage of that tradition. In crystal tradition, jasper is associated with stability and perseverance — the stone of sustained work and patient construction.
The symbolic properties attributed to minerals belong to cultural and historical traditions. They are shared for educational purposes, not as medical advice or a substitute for professional care.
How to recognize genuine jasper
Genuine jasper is completely opaque (no translucency when held against light) and has a hardness of 6.5–7 Mohs — it cannot be scratched with a steel knife. The polished surface has a smooth and homogeneous texture with no pores. Imitations made of ceramic or colored glass have different densities (lighter or heavier), distinct reflections, and may show bubbles or artificial repetitive patterns.
Frequently asked questions
Does this jasper have any treatment?
No. No detectable treatment. The color and pattern are the result of the material's natural mineralogy. Statement based on lapidary observation; the piece does not include formal gemological certification.
Is it compatible with an everyday ring?
Its hardness of 6.5–7 Mohs makes it very resistant for daily wear. Bezel setting is recommended to protect the beveled edge. Jasper is not sensitive to water or most common cleaning products.
How to care for it?
Clean with a soft cloth or water and neutral soap. Jasper is stable at room temperature. See jewelry care.
Are the dimensions exact?
Ø 17 mm × 4.6 mm height. As it is hand-carved, there may be a variation of ±0.5 mm in any dimension.
See also: all cabochons · artisan lapidary.
