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[drRoxo]

Hey guys,

First time to the new site since the old gemstone.smfforfree was let go. Been years!

Question: I've developed a thing for polychrome jasper recently and am noticing there seems to be way more polished stuff available than rough (palm stones, eggs, display pieces). It looks like a lot of this is coming from China (at least on Ebay). Does anyone know if that stuff is legit? It isn't cheap and seems to be going for around $40/lb for the nice display pieces.

I know it comes from Madagascar. I've seen a little rough at my local rock shop and at some online wholesalers (in U.S., presumably). But I'm curious if it's one of those that's being manufactured in China. Thoughts?

[Stonemon]

I cannot speak to the polychrome, but welcome back or welcome.  Probably someone here will be able to help you with your inquiry.
 

[hummingbirdstones]

Welcome back!

As far as I know, Polychrome does come from Madagascar and it is natural.  I have never heard anything about it being made in China.

[drRoxo]

Hmmmm. I would correct myself: $20-30 /lb for carved and polished chunks.

It could just be that they (in China) have been snatching up rough and have their own 'industry' on carving/polishing larger pieces. It loses a lot of its attractiveness when cabbed, maybe hence the lack of finished stuff (often cabs) in the states. I suppose if it were being manufactured it would be available by more sellers and would be 'race to the bottom' in price.

Anyway, it would be interesting to see who is still here after 6 years! I've already spotted a couple I think. I remember Kurt (?) was the carving guy on the forum living out that way years ago, maybe he might know something??

[Slabbercabber]

I bought both of these pieces about ten years ago.  The tumbled stone was from a native of Madagaskar who imported it himself.  The frog drawn carriage was carved in China and sold as Madagaskar polychrome.  The carriage weighs about three times as much and cost about 20% more than the tumbled.  Clearly, the Chinese carvers are getting a much better price than we are able to.  It looks like a great business opportunity for an adventurous person.

[Slabbercabber]

Oops, forgot the photos.

[drRoxo]

Ah, yes. I thought there were some missing pictures. Interesting colors on the carving - I don't think I've seen any with quite that color combo going on.