Discovering Biggs Jasper: A Rare Gem Discovered at the 2011 Tucson Gem Show.
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
During my first trip to the Tucson Gem, Mineral & Fossil Showcase in 2011, among the hundreds of jases on display, one in particular caught my eye. I made this discovery at the booth of a man named Tom Wolfe, known for his vast selection of jases, agates, and petrified wood, many of which came from the western United States.
As I browsed the display, my eyes were drawn to a gem with a unique character. With a subtle beige color, dotted with delicate, flowing brown lines and subtle dendritic patterns, this opaque stone exuded a calm and mysterious beauty. Intrigued, I picked up the gem and examined it closely. Curiosity got the better of me, and I turned to the seller to learn more. He didn’t hesitate for a second before answering, “BIGGS! Biggs jasper!” A name I had never heard before.
At that moment, a passion was born within me. I decided to uncover the secrets of this fascinating jasper, Biggs jasper, which seemed relatively unknown in Europe at the time. This quest led me to explore the history and formation of this rare gem, its unique patterns, and its origin in the state of Oregon, in the United States. It also gave me the opportunity to write my first article for the gemmology journal of the AFG (Association Française de Gemmologie), a milestone in my career as a gemologist.
Since that day, Biggs jasper has held a special place in my collection. Its unique appearance and natural characteristics have not only fascinated me but have also deepened my passion for lesser-known gemstones.
Comments