Noreena Jasper cabochons from Noreena Downs Station, Pilbara region, Western Australia. Three formats in this lot: 26×18×8 mm, 25×21×6 mm, and 32×19×4 mm.
Item details
| Mineral |
Noreena Jasper (microcrystalline chert with iron oxides; microcrystalline quartz of sedimentary origin) |
| Dimensions |
26×18×8 mm · 25×21×6 mm · 32×19×4 mm depending on variant (tolerance ±0.5 mm) |
| Shape and back |
Freeform, flat back |
| Finish |
Mirror polished on face, unpolished flat back |
| Hardness |
6.5–7 Mohs — we recommend a closed bezel setting to protect the edges |
| Origin |
Noreena Downs Station, Pilbara, Western Australia |
| Treatment |
Untreated |
| Type of item |
Unique piece: the pattern of each cabochon is unrepeatable |
This specific piece
The three formats in this lot show the characteristic Noreena Jasper pattern: areas of intense red (hematite disseminated in the chert matrix) separated by irregular cream-yellow veins (purer silica, free of oxides).
The freeform shape of these cabochons follows the natural color distribution in the rock: the lapidary has cut each piece to maximize the presence of the most interesting pattern in that area of the block, which explains the irregular silhouettes and the differences in thickness between formats.
How Noreena Jasper is formed
Noreena Jasper is a chert—an ultra-microcrystalline sedimentary silica rock—formed approximately 2.45 billion years ago in the Hamersley Basin, one of the oldest and best-preserved geological formations on the planet.
For what setting it works
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Statement rings in 925 silver bezel — the 26×18×8 mm format has enough depth for a robust bezel; the contrast of red-ochre with bright or oxidized silver is very striking. With 6.5–7 Mohs, Noreena Jasper withstands ring wear.
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Pendants in straight or freeform 925 silver bezel — the 32×19×4 mm format is ideal for flat pendants; the 25×21×6 mm format works for large earrings or a focal pendant. The bezel can be straight if the cabochon shape allows it, or freeform if the outline is irregular.
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Wire wrap with silver or copper wire — an alternative for those who work with wire; the earthy color of Noreena Jasper combines well with natural copper or oxidized silver, accentuating the red palette.
Noreena Jasper in lapidary tradition
Noreena Downs Station, in the Pilbara region, Western Australia, gives its name to this jasper which began appearing at international mineral fairs from the 1990s onwards.
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 Noreena Jasper
Authentic Noreena Jasper shows a pattern of intense red and cream with boundaries between areas that are not smooth transitions but relatively abrupt limits, reflecting the original laminar sedimentary structure.
Frequently asked questions
Is the red color of Noreena Jasper treated?
No detectable treatment. The red is intrinsic: it comes from hematite (Fe₂O₃) disseminated in the chert matrix during diagenesis 2.45 billion years ago.
Which format is most suitable for a ring?
The 26×18×8 mm offers the greatest depth (8 mm) and is most suitable for a robust ring bezel.
Are the shapes geometric or completely irregular?
Freeform: the outline follows the pattern distribution in the original block.
What is the depth of each format?
26×18×8 mm: 8 mm deep. 25×21×6 mm: 6 mm. 32×19×4 mm: 4 mm. These are nominal depths; tolerance ±0.5 mm.
Can the flatter format (32×19×4) be used in a ring?
With a depth of 4 mm, it is viable for low-profile rings with a very low bezel; the limitation is that a closed bezel at 4 mm has less material to grip.
How is Noreena Jasper cared for?
Clean with a soft, damp cloth. No acids or ultrasonics. Store separately from harder materials. With 6.5–7 Mohs, it withstands daily use well. See jewelry care guide.
See also: cabochon collection · silversmithing materials.
