Pair of German polychrome jasper teardrop cabochons, 16×8 and 16×9 mm, beveled edge and flat back. Dark grayish-blue background with amber, ochre, and brown veins. Hand-cut in our workshop from German rough.
Piece Details
| Mineral |
Polychrome Jasper (microcrystalline quartz, multicolor variety) |
| Dimensions |
Left: 16 × 8 × 4 mm / Right: 16 × 9 × 4.5 mm. ±0.5 mm due to being hand-cut. |
| Shape and Back |
Teardrop, beveled edge (bevel/chamfer), flat polished back |
| Finish |
Mirror polish |
| Hardness |
6.5–7 Mohs — very resistant for earrings and pendants |
| Origin |
Germany (rough from German lapidary) |
| Treatment |
No treatment |
| Piece Type |
Available as a pair (left and right) |
These Specific Pieces
Both pieces are from the same rough German jasper and share the same palette: dark grayish-blue with warm amber veins running diagonally across the surface. There is a difference in pattern between them — the left shows more dark area with amber thread, the right has more warm areas with earthy brown — which is inherent to the heterogeneity of natural material. The beveled edge of both pieces frames the pattern with a clean and geometric chamfer.
The teardrop shape with a beveled edge and flat profile is especially suitable for earrings: the wider end is oriented towards the ear (or setting) and the narrow end hangs downwards, creating a downward visual movement that elongates the neckline. The size (16×8-9 mm) is compact but visible.
For What Setting It Works
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Bezel setting (925 silver or other precious metals) — the teardrop shape fits standard earring bezels; the 6.5–7 Mohs hardness does not require special setting precautions
-
Earrings with silver setting — the pair of pieces is intended for symmetrical earrings; the natural pattern varies between them but the color range is the same
-
Wire wrap — the flat beveled edge facilitates wire grip; the teardrop is one of the most manageable shapes in wire wrap
German Polychrome Jasper
Idar-Oberstein, in Rhineland-Palatinate, was for centuries the most important lapidary center in Europe: its artisans developed jasper and agate cutting techniques that were exported globally, and the region remains a reference for high-quality rough material. In crystal traditions, jasper is associated with stability and perseverance — the stone of one who builds with patience and takes sure steps, without haste.
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 and has a hardness of 6.5–7 Mohs (it cannot be scratched with a steel knife). The polished surface is smooth and non-porous. Imitations made of ceramic or colored glass have different densities and may show artificial repetitive patterns or internal bubbles under magnification.
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.
Are the two cabochons exactly alike?
Not exactly — the internal pattern varies between the two pieces (which is normal for any hand-cut natural mineral), but the color range and finish are the same. Pattern differences can be an aesthetic value in themselves in asymmetrical earring designs.
How are they cared for?
Clean with a soft cloth or water and mild soap. Jasper is stable and resistant. See jewelry care.
What are the exact dimensions?
Left: 16 × 8 × 4 mm. Right: 16 × 9 × 4.5 mm. ±0.5 mm in any dimension due to being hand-cut.
See also: all cabochons · artisan lapidary.
