Polychrome Jasper (Desert Jasper)

Polychrome jasper — also called desert jasper — is a multicoloured variety of jasper, the opaque form of chalcedony (microcrystalline quartz). It is prized for swirling, landscape-like patterns in warm earth tones: red, ochre, mustard-yellow, brown, cream and muted green.

Identifying it

Like all jasper it is hard (about 7) and takes a high polish, with an opaque body coloured by iron oxides and other impurities. Its appeal lies in the painterly, often scene-like banding and mottling unique to each piece.

Where it is found

Polychrome jasper was discovered relatively recently in the deserts of western Madagascar, which remains its main source.

For collectors and lapidaries

Rich, varied colour, attractive 'landscape' patterning and a flawless polish are what make the best polychrome jasper; it is cut into cabochons, spheres, freeforms and palm stones.