Pink-yellow Ocean Jasper teardrop cabochon from Madagascar, 30×15 mm. Multicolor orbs on a cream background with pink and golden areas. Stock acquired at a lapidary wholesale market.
Item Details
| Mineral |
Ocean Jasper (orbicular microcrystalline SiO₂) |
| Dimensions |
30×15 mm nominal (±0.5 mm) |
| Shape and back |
Teardrop (pear shape), flat back |
| Finish |
Mirror polish |
| Hardness |
6.5–7 Mohs — suitable for pendants, earrings, and bezel-set rings |
| Origin |
Madagascar |
| Treatment |
Untreated |
| Item type |
Unique piece |
This specific piece
The pink-yellow palette of ocean jasper comes from the combination of iron oxides (yellow and orange) with orthosilicate inclusions in the microcrystalline quartz matrix. The rounded orbs — the visual signature of ocean jasper — are radial aggregates of quartz that crystallized around a nucleus during volcanic genesis.
The 30×15 mm teardrop cut is the classic proportion for handmade jewelry pendants: the lower apex directs the eye downwards and the rounded body balances the composition. The orbicular pattern of this piece has orbs between 3 and 8 mm in diameter.
What kind of setting it works for
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Bezel setting (925 silver) — the 6.5-7 Mohs hardness withstands bezel crimping without chipping; the teardrop shape requires a continuous curved bezel from the shoulders to the tip.
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Handmade pendants — the teardrop cut has its natural hanging axis at the upper apex; the 30×15 mm size is visible without being excessive.
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Wire wrap — the warm color combination of ocean jasper works well with copper or silver wire.
Ocean jasper in lapidary tradition
Madagascar ocean jasper was commercially identified in the late 1990s on the coastal cliffs of the Ambolobozo province. Its seasonal extraction depended on the tides, earning it the nickname "ocean stone". French lapidaries were the first to introduce it to the European semi-precious gem market, immediately recognizing the value of its unique orbicular patterns. In crystal tradition, ocean jasper is associated with joy and the present moment.
The symbolic properties attributed to minerals belong to cultural and historical traditions. They are shared for educational purposes, not as medical advice.
How to recognize genuine ocean jasper
Authentic ocean jasper has rounded orbs with a radial structure visible under magnification; painted imitations have regularly outlined circles with no internal texture. The color varies in smooth gradation between orbs; dyed ones have abrupt color changes. The 6.5-7 Mohs hardness scratches glass effortlessly. Specimens from Madagascar have more varied colors and more complex orbs than those from other localities.
Frequently asked questions
Is it natural ocean jasper from Madagascar?
Yes. No detectable treatment. The pink-yellow color comes from natural iron oxides in the matrix. Statement based on lapidary observation; the piece does not include formal gemological certification.
What jewelry is this cut best for?
The 30×15 mm teardrop cut is ideal for pendants with a moderate presence. It also works for large hook earrings where size is the differentiating element.
Are the dimensions exact?
30×15 mm nominal with a tolerance of ±0.5 mm. As a unique piece from lapidary stock, dimensions may vary slightly.
What makes this piece unique?
The orb pattern, color distribution, and the exact position of each orb are unrepeatable. No two ocean jaspers have the same pattern.
How is it cared for?
Resistant to water and household chemical agents. Clean with warm water and mild soap. More at jewelry care.
See also: cabochons collection · handmade pendants.
