Aug-Sep 2000

  Agate and Jasper Pairs

   The stones shown here are a sampling of the fine agate and jasper pairs that are produced in our lapidary shop. Included in the photo are Morrisonite, Laguna Agate, Agua Nueva Agate, Willow Creek Jasper, and Imperial Jasper. The cutting process begins with a thick slab. Then the trimmed slab goes to the grinding wheel to receive its shape. When the cutter is pleased with the final shape, the slab is cut in half to make 2 pieces with "close to mirror" images.  The  mirror image is usually slightly less than perfect since some material is removed in the cutting. The pairs continue through the finishing process until that brilliant "Gem Shop" shine is achieved.