mineral
Bumblebee Jasper
Travertine (Calcite/Aragonite) with Realgar, Pyrite, and Volcanic Ash
Hardness: 3.5-4.5 (Mohs scale), Color: Vibrant yellow, orange, black, and white bands, Luster: Waxy to subvitreous, Crystal structure: Microcrystalline/Aggregates. Often highly porous.
- Hardness
- 3
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Physical properties
Hardness: 3.5-4.5 (Mohs scale), Color: Vibrant yellow, orange, black, and white bands, Luster: Waxy to subvitreous, Crystal structure: Microcrystalline/Aggregates. Often highly porous.
Formation & geological history
Formed in fumaroles (volcanic vents) in West Java, Indonesia. It is a sedimentary rock (travertine) chemically precipitated from hot springs and heavily influenced by volcanic emissions.
Uses & applications
Primarily used in lapidary arts for cabochons, jewelry, and ornamental carvings due to its striking patterns.
Geological facts
Despite its name, it is not a true jasper (chalcedony/quartz) but mostly calcite. The vivid yellow/orange colors come from realgar (an arsenic sulfide), while black bands are usually pyrite or manganese oxide. Due to the arsenic content, rough material should be handled with care, though polished pieces are generally safe.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its distinctive black, yellow, and orange banding, relative softness compared to true jasper, and reaction to dilute acid (effervescence due to calcite). Exclusively found at Mount Papandayan, Indonesia.
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