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GEMOLOGY GOLD: POTOMAC GEMOLOGY CLASS CELEBRATES 50 YEARS 
THE EARTH’S TREASURES • MINERALS & JEWELRY VOL. 51 NO. 4 • APRIL 2021
VIRGINIA’S 
NATURAL WONDER
Focusing On a 
Promising Future
TOP TIPS 
& ESSENTIAL 
GEAR
0 4
0 74470 02033 2
ROCK&GEM • Vol. 51 No. 4 • U.S. $5.99 
Issue Code: 2021-04 • April 2021 
Display until 4/20/2021 • Printed in the U.S.A.
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SCAN ME
This kit contains 1 pound of 60/90, 120/220,
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10 ARIZONA’S PERIDOT 
MESA GEM MINE
A Green Gem Born 
in Volcanic Lava
By Bob Jones
20 BURMESE JADE
The Story of 
Myanmar’s Jadeite
By Steve Voynick
28 A HISTORIC NATURAL 
WONDER WITH A 
PROMISING FUTURE
Revived Interest Shines 
on the Natural Bridge of 
Virginia
By Deborah Painter
34 THINK ZINC
The Mysterious Case of 
the Disappearing Metal
By Bob Jones
38 7 QUESTIONS WITH 
STEVE VOYNICK
4 ROCKNGEM.COM
R E G U L A R C O L U M N S
Field Notes ............................ 6
Community Outlook ............16
Bench Tips ...........................18
R&G Kids .............................26
Club Corner .........................44
The Road Report ................46
Earth Science News ............50
Rock Science .....................68
Club Call Out .......................70
Show Dates .........................72
What to Cut .........................74
On the Rocks .......................76
Parting Shot .........................82
VOL. 51 NO. 4 • APRIL 2021
On The Cover
Peridot gemstone, trillion cut, 11.64 
carats, Heritage Auctions, www.
ha.com; Natural Bridge in Virginia, 
Virginia State Parks, CC BY 2.0, via 
Wikimedia Commons; Getty Images
Be Part of the Rock & 
Gem Online Community
40 TiPS & GEAR
Seize the Day in 
Rockhounding
By Antoinette Rahn
54 OHIO ISLAND HOPPING
Exploring the Depths 
of a Crystal Cave, 
Winery Provisions, 
and Fossil Fields
By Bruce McKay
58 ROCK & GEM REVISITED: 
PICTURE ROCKS
Discovering and 
Displaying Nature’s 
Landscape Artwork 
(April 1973)
By George Lindsay, with a sidebar 
by Martin Goodman
64 ROCK & GEM ON THE GO:
Catching Up with 
Gail and Jim Spann
By Antoinette Rahn 
and Tracy Alvarez
40
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Carrasite Jasper
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Lost Rabbit Thunderegg 
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We are working together to bring world class material to market
Lava Cap Thundereggs Charlie’s Pride JasperCarrasite Jasper
Idaho, Oregon, Nevada
We are also Covington Dealers, we sell the equipment and bring 
people to our facility to train them on their purchase.
Spanish Stirrup Rock Shop
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Owner/proprietor 
* Specializes in and mines Lava Cap 
Thunderegg, Mine Shaft Thunderegg, 
Eggzilla Thunderegg, Lost Rabbit 
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Charlies Pride, also NorthRidge Plume Agate 
and Pink Lady Plume Agate
Steve.kathie@hotmail.com
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Ebay seller info: silver_streamsFacebook: Steve Schultz / Sliverstreams 
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T&J Rocks Plus
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*Specializes in Pink Lady Plume Agate and 
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775-275-0128
We all sell on Etsy, FB, websites, ect
Quartzite - Desert Gardens G8, The POW WOW spots 430,431,432
Lost Rabbit Thunderegg
our staff
EDITORIAL
BOB JONES
Senior Consulting Editor
ANTOINETTE RAHN
Managing Editor
SHAWN STIGSELL
Graphic Design
JIM BRACE-THOMPSON
MARC DAVIS
RUSS KANIUTH
BOB RUSH
HELEN SERRAS-HERMAN
STEVE VOYNICK
Regular Contributors
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JAMES L. MILLER
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6 ROCK&GEM | WWW.ROCKNGEM.COM
FIELD NOTES
We hope the fi rst few months of 2021 
have treated you kindly, and you are 
in good health. I thought I’d take a 
few minutes to mention a few special 
things we’re doing and to invite you to 
participate in a trivia contest of sorts. 
Oh yes, there are prizes up for grabs!
GLORIOUS GEMSTONES — 
COMING VERY SOON!
The next Rock & Gem digital series is in 
production now and will be available for 
FREE download by March 31. The series, 
Glorious Gemstones, includes articles 
about various gemstones, stunning photos 
of unique gemstones, insight, and advice 
about fi nding gemstones and working with 
stone to create spectacular art and jewelry. 
In addition, Glorious Gemstones will 
also feature video clips within the digital 
download. This series is an exciting new 
element for us, and we hope you’ll enjoy 
it. Sponsors are The Arkenstone Gallery of 
Fine Minerals, Royal Peacock Opal Mine, 
Kingsley North, Joseph Stachura, Best In 
Gems, Dig Maine Gems, and Presti & Presti.
 Check the Rock & Gem Digital 
Library to sign up now to receive the 
three issues of Glorious Gemstones when 
they are produced: www.rockngem.
com/illustrious-opals-library.
PREORDER YOUR 50TH ANNIVERSARY 
COMMEMORATIVE ISSUE
As you most likely know, Rock & Gem 
is celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2021. 
We are more than thrilled to be celebrating 
and, more importantly, to celebrate with 
you. With that, we’re producing a special 
commemorative issue of Rock & Gem. 
The 116-page 
commemorative 
issue, which is slated 
to be available the 
middle of July, 
will feature some 
of the most asked 
about articles from 
the R&G archives, 
stories about rockhounding families, 
insights from Rock & Gem’s regular 
contributors and columnists, helpful 
how-to instruction about multiple lapidary 
techniques, and submissions by readers just 
like you. The special issue’s price is $9.99, 
and if you are among the fi rst 150 people 
to preorder, you’ll receive an R&G 50th 
tote bag when the issue ships. Plus, if you 
order by July 1, 2021, standard shipping to 
U.S. addresses is FREE. Flip to page 75 of 
this issue for details about preordering.
APRIL TRIVIA
We love a good trivia hunt of sorts. 
We love rock hunting, so it kind 
of carries through into trivia. 
The answers to this month’s trivia 
questions can all be found within this 
issue. However, a few are challenging to 
fi nd, so give yourself a little time to search.
Hello!
Now, once you fi nd the answers to 
these questions, turn in your answers and 
your name and address for a chance to 
win the R&G Mystery Trivia Prize. Two 
winners will be selected, at random, from 
everyone who answers all of the questions 
correctly. Be sure to submit your answers 
by April 5, 2021, to Antoinette Rahn via 
email to arahn@beckett.com or USPS to 
Antoinette C/o Rock & Gem 415 West 
Fulton St. #9 Waupaca, WI 54981.
— Antoinette Rahn
The Unifi cada Mine in Bolivia was the 
place where a striking specimen of 
___________ was found. (Fill in the blank)
Friends of the Natural Bridge work to preserve 
and protect a natural structure in which state?
True or False. Bismuth repels magnetism.
_______ are piles of rocks, pebbles, sand, and silt 
that emerge from a narrow canyon, especially in 
an arid or semi-arid environment like a desert.
True or False. The Fantasy Machine is a device 
that acts as a time machine sending people 
back to the 1980s hit show “Fantasy Island.”
Muck Boots are a must-have item of gear 
for hunting in this location: ___________.
WWW.ROCKNGEM.COM | APRIL 2021 7
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Phone: 406-651-4947 � Mobile: 406-208-2577
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Website: 
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All peridot gem mining on the Apache Nation’s Peridot Mesa is 
hard work and done only using hand tools. BOB JONES
Arizona’s Peridot 
Mesa Gem Mine
STORY BY BOB JONES
A GREEN GEM BORN IN VOLCANIC LAVA
I
n theheart of the San Carlos Apache tribal 
lands of Arizona, just a few miles east of Globe, 
Arizona, is one of the richest, perhaps the 
largest, source of green gem peridot in the 
world. The gem is a rich green to the yellow-green 
color found in xenoliths of basaltic lava. 
Peridot is the gem form of olivine but what is 
really odd is olivine is not a mineral. If you read 
Fleischer’s Glossary of Mineral Species, which 
many use, olivine is not listed. This is because 
the name’s general use is given to a solid solution 
series of two minerals, fayalite and forsterite. 
Pure forsterite is magnesium silicate, and fayalite 
is an iron silicate, but they rarely occur in pure 
form. This state is because magnesium and iron 
are present in varying amounts in both species. 
Whichever of these two elements dominates in a 
mineral determines if it is forsterite with magnesium 
exceeding iron or fayalite, the iron-rich species. 
Olivine is the name assigned to this series, and if the 
mineral is gemmy, its identity is peridot. In the early days, 
the gem was known as topazos as it looks like yellow 
topaz. Another name for peridot is chrysolite, which 
means gold stone. No matter which name is applied, 
the stone’s color is always some green shade, which is 
infl uenced by traces of chromium or nickel. Peridot 
is one of the few gems found in only one color. 
True, peridot can range from bright yellow-
green and low in iron to brownish-green and 
high in iron, so olivine is always green. 
EVOLUTION OF PERIDOT MINING
Historically, the fi nest peridot gems were 
mined by the Egyptians on an Island in the 
Red Sea. In those early days, the green 
gems were easily mistaken for emer-
alds. The Egyptians considered it 
the Gem of the Sun, and it is now 
the National Gem of Egypt. The 
Egyptians mined peridot at least 
3,500 years ago on El Zabaragad 
Island, which in modern times 
is called St. John’s Island. The 
mining area was referred to as 
Peridot Hill. The Egyptians also 
mined emeralds in the Littoral Zone area, 
the area between the Red Sea and the Nile 
River. Since the Egyptians lacked the skill to 
distinguish between two green stones from 
these two sources, some of Cleopatra’s 
emeralds could well be peridot gems. 
This confusion certainly existed with 
green gems in Europe, where ancient 
religious artifacts holding green 
gems from Egypt were all considered 
emeralds for centuries but are now 
proven in some cases to be Egyptian peridot. 
It is interesting to note that at some 
time, perhaps during the Dark Ages, the 
location of Zabaragad Island was lost 
and was only known through legends. 
 WWW.ROCKNGEM.COM | APRIL 2021 11
t 
Crystals of forsterite 
var. peridot, from the 
Manshera, Naran-Kagan 
Valley, Kohistan District, 
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa 
(North-West Frontier 
Province), Pakistan
PARENT GÉRY, CC BY-SA 3.0, 
VIA WIKIMEDIA COMMONS
G
E
T
T
Y
 I
M
A
G
E
S
https://avxlive.icu/
https://avxlive.icu/
12 ROCK&GEM | WWW.ROCKNGEM.COM
Arizona’s Peridot Mesa Gem Mine
Finally, in 1905, the island was rediscovered, and its 
peridot mines were once again opened. As I mentioned 
earlier, it was called St. John’s Island and the English 
also worked the deposit with only limited success.
Today the San Carlos, Arizona peridot deposits supply 
most of the commercially sold and used peridot. Tribal 
members mine the peridot, which occurs as small green 
grains in the basalt. The entire volcanic structure called 
Peridot Mesa is mined exclusively by local residents. 
Peridot does occur elsewhere in Arizona, but the San 
Carlos Apache Indian Reservation is the leading source 
for peridot sold as rough and fi nished gems worldwide. 
While working on the documentary “Gemstones of 
America,” we visited Peridot Mesa, where we fi lmed 
the Apache tribal members mining gemstones. The 
work is not easy, as it had to be done by hand in 
order to break up the hard basalt where the peridot 
occurs. The workers use large hammers, sedges, chisels 
and wedges to split and break up the solid rock and 
expose gas cavities fi lled with crystalline grains of 
peridot. The green grains often spill out of the opened 
pockets and are placed in buckets to be carried away 
for later sorting, washing and preparing for sale. 
VISITING PERIDOT MESA
Peridot Mesa’s geology is typically volcanic, mainly 
basalt volcanic rock low in silica and high in magnesium 
with some iron, which is important for the formation 
of forsterite. The mineral also appears in what we call 
volcanic bombs, large masses of molten lava ejected dur-
ing an eruption that shoots into the air. These “bombs” 
cool as they fall to earth, taking on a recognizable twisted 
elongate egg shape in which peridot is sometimes found. 
The green grains from Peridot Mesa are never as large 
as those found in Egypt and elsewhere. The area’s cut 
stones are most often in the one to three-carat range, 
with a fi ve-carat stone an exception. The Smithsonian 
boasts a cut green gem from the Peridot Mesa that 
weighs 35 carats, an amazing size for the region. This 
gem ranks as one of the best from Peridot Mesa. 
Peridot is a remarkable gem. It forms in the 
orthorhombic crystal system with a hardness between 
6.5 and 7 and has poor cleavage, which means it 
can be faceted. It has a vitreous luster, and because 
of its rarity, fi ne color, and relatively small size as 
a gem, peridot is considered a precious gem. 
If we could reach the earth’s upper mantle beneath 
our granitic crust, we would fi nd huge quantities of 
This is an assortment of Peridot Mesa gems ranges from a large 
fi ve carat stone to more typical one and two carat stones. 
BOB JONES
Olivine, with minor pyroxene (brown) on 
vesicular basalt. San Carlos, Arizona, USA.
PYROPE, CC BY-SA 4.0, VIA WIKIMEDIA COMMONS
 WWW.ROCKNGEM.COM | APRIL 2021 13
As a Peridot 
Mesa miner 
works to recover 
gem material our 
TV cameraman 
gets in close.
BOB JONES
14 ROCK&GEM | WWW.ROCKNGEM.COM
olivine rock. Scientists, using earthquake vibrations and 
artifi cially induced earthquakes of the earth, show the 
upper mantle is made up mainly of olivine, likely mostly 
peridot. This prompts scientists to estimate that olivine 
is the most common rock on the earth. Just imagine 
the size of some gemmy peridot masses in the earth’s 
mantle. The mineral lends its name to an important 
mantle rock., peridotite, the rock where diamonds are 
found. These gems in peridotite originate in the lower 
mantle and are brought to the crust by volcanic action. 
Above ground, olivine forms in many places on earth 
in limited amounts. The famous black sands of Hawaii 
are well mixed with tiny green grains of peridot. None of 
the grains are large enough to facet, but this is evidence 
of how common such granular peridot can be. And 
while we have many places where olivine and peridot 
have been found in limited amounts, it may surprise you 
to know peridot is also found in space and its gemmy! 
As you well know, the earth sometimes is an audience 
to a comet that zooms into our Solar System, curves 
around the sun, and heads back out into space. The 
solar wind causes these comets to develop long sweeping 
tails that grow as the comet nears the sun. Scientifi c 
studies of these comets reveal the tails contain traces 
of peridot. Stony meteorites are another space rock 
with ties to peridot. Stony meteorites come in two 
general forms, carbonaceous chondrites and pallasites. 
Chondrites look like ordinary earthly stones and are 
eagerly sought by astronomers as they represent some 
of the more primitive meteorites to have formed. They 
contain organic compounds which are very suggestive of 
life, and as such are studied carefully. 
 Some years ago, a carbonaceous chondrite broke 
into a thousand pieces and fell near Allende, Mexico. 
Arizona astronomerswere particularly anxious to 
obtain pieces of this meteorite. Because it had landed 
so close to Arizona serious efforts were made to collect 
it. Chuck Lewis, curator of Arizona State University’s 
meteorite collection, was lucky to be invited to help 
retrieve boxes of this important meteorite. The 
University boasts one of the great meteorite collections. 
Chuck and I headed for the border and brought back 
many pounds of the Allende fall collected by friend 
Benny Fenn and local Allende meteorite searchers. 
Pallasites are of interest here because they contain 
large grains of peridot olivine like the mantle. The 
peridot is locked in solid nickel-iron material suggestive 
of the earth’s lower mantle-nickel-ion core. The olivine 
in pallasites is mostly gemmy, transparent peridot. Some 
brave soul even removed the large grains of peridot from 
a fallen pallasite and faceted tiny peridot gems from it. 
Arizona’s Peridot Mesa will continue to produce 
for years to come. Lucy is the gem collector who 
can own a green gem from here that weighs in at 
over three carats. It is a real precious treasure. 
The peridot from the Apache Tribal Reservation is of small size but 
occurs in huge quantities. BOB JONES
An example of Peridot mined in Pakistan. WIKIMEDIA COMMONS
Arizona’s Peridot Mesa Gem Mine
WWW.ROCKNGEM.COM | APRIL 2021 15
PERIDOT
Origin - San Carlos Apache 
Indian Reservation near 
Globe, Arizona -Small Sizes- 
And China * -Large Sizes-
Size Approx. Price
& Shape Wt. Each Each
Round
2.0 mm 0.05 carats $0.50
3.0 mm 0.10 carats 0.50
3.5 mm 0.20 carats 1.00
4.0 mm 0.25 carats 1.50
5.0 mm 0.50 carats 3.50
6.0 mm 0.90 carats 7.50
7.0 mm 1.25 carats 28.00
8.0 mm 1.90 carats 85.00*
10.0 mm 4.00 carats 240.00*
Ovals
5x3 mm 0.25 carats 1.25
6x4 mm 0.50 carats 2.50
7x5 mm 0.90 carats 10.00
8x6 mm 1.35 carats 25.00
9x7 mm 2.00 carats 100.00*
10x8 mm 2.50 carats 150.00*
Emerald Cuts
5x3 mm 0.35 carats $1.75
7x5 mm 1.00 carats 15.00
8x6 mm 1.70 carats 60.00
9x7 mm 2.25 carats 125.00*
10x8 mm 3.65 carats 240.00*
Pearshapes
5x3 mm 0.25 carats $1.25
6x4 mm 0.45 carats 2.50
7x5 mm 0.70 carats 7.00
8x5 mm 0.85 carats 8.50
9x6 mm 1.20 carats 28.00
10x7 mm 1.90 carats 85.00*
Marquises
6x3 mm 0.25 carats $1.25
8x4 mm 0.50 carats 3.50
10x5 mm 1.20 carats 28.00
Heartshape
4.0 mm 0.25 carats $1.25
5.0 mm 0.45 carats 4.00
Trillions
3 mm 0.10 carats 1.00
4 mm 0.25 carats 1.50
5 mm 0.45 carats 4.00
PIONEER GEM CORPORATION
Dr. Edward J. Nowak, Jr.
PO Box 1513 RG
Auburn, WA 98071-1513
FAX: 253-833-1418 - 24/7
Phone: 253-833-2760
Website - www.pioneergem.com
Email - pioneergem@seanet.com
© 2019 MK Diamond Products. All Rights Reserved. Images, prices and specifications are subject to change without notice.
MADE IN USA
MADE IN USA
© 2019 MK Diamond Products. All Rights Reserved. Images, prices and specifications are subject to change without notice.
MADE IN USA
MADE IN USA
FOR A SUPERIOR 
SELECTION OF 
FACETING ROUGH
P.O. Box 594, Murrieta, CA 92564
Phone/Fax (951) 698-4833 | Cell (818) 800-5644
Scan Me
Visit: www.johngarsow.comVisit: www.johngarsow.com
johngrasow@sysmatrix.net johngrasow@sysmatrix.net 
© 2019 MK Diamond Products. All Rights Reserved. Images, prices and specifications are subject to change without notice.
MADE IN USA
MADE IN USA
© 2019 MK Diamond Products. All Rights Reserved. Images, prices and specifications are subject to change without notice.
MADE IN USA
MADE IN USA
© 2019 MK Diamond Products. All Rights Reserved. Images, prices and specifications are subject to change without notice.
MADE IN USA
MADE IN USA
© 2019 MK Diamond Products. All Rights Reserved. Images, prices and specifications are subject to change without notice.
MADE IN USA
MADE IN USA
© 2019 MK Diamond Products. All Rights Reserved. Images, prices and specifications are subject to change without notice.
MADE IN USA
MADE IN USA
© 2019 MK Diamond Products. All Rights Reserved. Images, prices and specifications are subject to change without notice.
MADE IN USA
MADE IN USA
© 2019 MK Diamond Products. All Rights Reserved. Images, prices and specifications are subject to change without notice.
MADE IN USA
MADE IN USA
© 2019 MK Diamond Products. All Rights Reserved. Images, prices and specifications are subject to change without notice.
MADE IN USA
MADE IN USA
© 2019 MK Diamond Products. All Rights Reserved. Images, prices and specifications are subject to change without notice.
MADE IN USA
MADE IN USA
© 2019 MK Diamond Products. All Rights Reserved. Images, prices and specifications are subject to change without notice.
MADE IN USA
MADE IN USA
BIGGS JASPER 
1
1
0 
I am thrilled to offer this week long class at my studio. It is six intense days of fun, 
learning and doing. On Saturday we will start with our Beginning Silversmithing Class 
where you will learn the fundamentals of silver soldering and creating a fabulous 
contemporary or southwestern styled Pendant or Single Band Ring. On Sunday we’ll 
create a 3 Wire Bracelet, Monday a Freeform Bracelet, Tuesday a Sterling and Pearl 
Cuff or a Cuttlebone Casting Bracelet, Wednesday and Thursday open shop time or 
modified How to Sell and Shopify per each students preference.
China Hollow Beers Mountain Jasper
America’s Premier Jewelry & Bead Faires
GEM FAIRE
2020
JAN. 3, 4, 5
JAN. 10, 11, 12
JAN. 17, 18, 19
JAN. 31, FEB. 1, 2
FEB. 14, 15, 16
FEB. 28, 29, MAR. 1
FEB. 28, 29, MAR. 1
MAR. 6, 7, 8
MAR. 13, 14, 15
MAR. 14 & 15
MAR. 20, 21, 22
MAR. 27, 28, 29
APR. 3, 4, 5
APR. 17, 18, 19
APR. 24, 25, 26
MAY 1, 2, 3
MAY 8, 9, 10
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SANTA ROSA, CA
DEL MAR, CA
SAN RAFAEL, CA
ROSEVILLE, CA
SANTA BARBARA, CA
COSTA MESA, CA
JACKSONVILLE, FL
DEL MAR, CA
PUYALLUP, WA
NAPLES, FL
PORTLAND, OR
SALT LAKE CITY, UT
EUGENE, OR
SANTA ROSA, CA
SAN DIEGO, CA
PLEASANTON, CA
SACRAMENTO, CA
SCHEDULE
Gem Faire
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Limit one per person. Property of Gem Faire, Inc. Can be revoked without notice.
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2019
MAY 17, 18, 19
MAY 31, JUN. 1, 2
JUN. 7, 8, 9
JUN. 28, 29, 30
JUL. 5, 6, 7
JUL. 12, 13, 14
JUL. 19, 20, 21
AUG. 2, 3, 4
AUG. 9, 10, 11
AUG. 16, 17, 18
AUG. 23, 24, 25
AUG. 30, 31, SEP. 1
COSTA MESA, CA
TULSA, OK
SALT LAKE CITY, UT
SAN DIEGO, CA
EUGENE, OR
PORTLAND, OR
SAN RAFAEL, CA
PLEASANTON, CA
SACRAMENTO, CA
SANTA BARBARA, CA
COSTA MESA, CA
SAN DIEGO, CA
SCHEDULE
FREE ADMISSION
ONE
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***
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RG6/19
America’sPremier Jewelry & Bead Faires
GEM FAIRE
2020
JAN. 3, 4, 5
JAN. 10, 11, 12
JAN. 17, 18, 19
JAN. 31, FEB. 1, 2
FEB. 14, 15, 16
FEB. 28, 29, MAR. 1
FEB. 28, 29, MAR. 1
MAR. 6, 7, 8
MAR. 13, 14, 15
MAR. 14 & 15
MAR. 20, 21, 22
MAR. 27, 28, 29
APR. 3, 4, 5
APR. 17, 18, 19
APR. 24, 25, 26
MAY 1, 2, 3
MAY 8, 9, 10
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SANTA ROSA, CA
DEL MAR, CA
SAN RAFAEL, CA
ROSEVILLE, CA
SANTA BARBARA, CA
COSTA MESA, CA
JACKSONVILLE, FL
DEL MAR, CA
PUYALLUP, WA
NAPLES, FL
PORTLAND, OR
SALT LAKE CITY, UT
EUGENE, OR
SANTA ROSA, CA
SAN DIEGO, CA
PLEASANTON, CA
SACRAMENTO, CA
SCHEDULE
Gem Faire
produces
nearly
50 shows
a year
JOIN GEM FAIRE COMMUNITY
ü competitive booth prices
ü professional booth set up
ü earn high profits!
First Name __________________________________________________
Last Name __________________________________________________
Address_____________________________________________________
City______________________________State________Zip____________
*Complete & bring this ad to receive one free admission. General admission $7. 
Limit one per person. Property of Gem Faire, Inc. Can be revoked without notice.
Cannot be combined with other offers. Non-transferrable.
RG2/20
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GEMFAIRE.COM
JEWELRYCRYSTALSGEMSBEADSMINERALS
ADMISSION
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BEADSMINERALS
West Coast’s Premier Jewelry & Bead Faires
GEM FAIRE
Gem Faire
produces
nearly
50 shows
a year
JOIN GEM FAIRE COMMUNITY
ü competitive booth prices
ü professional booth set up
ü earn high profits!
First ________________________________
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Address _____________________________
____________________________________
City_________________________________
State___________ Zip__________________
Complete & bring this ad to receive one 
free admission. General admission $7. 
Limit one per person. Property of 
Gem Faire, Inc. Can be revoked without 
notice. Cannot be combined with other 
offers. Non-transferrable.
2019
MAY 17, 18, 19
MAY 31, JUN. 1, 2
JUN. 7, 8, 9
JUN. 28, 29, 30
JUL. 5, 6, 7
JUL. 12, 13, 14
JUL. 19, 20, 21
AUG. 2, 3, 4
AUG. 9, 10, 11
AUG. 16, 17, 18
AUG. 23, 24, 25
AUG. 30, 31, SEP. 1
COSTA MESA, CA
TULSA, OK
SALT LAKE CITY, UT
SAN DIEGO, CA
EUGENE, OR
PORTLAND, OR
SAN RAFAEL, CA
PLEASANTON, CA
SACRAMENTO, CA
SANTA BARBARA, CA
COSTA MESA, CA
SAN DIEGO, CA
SCHEDULE
FREE ADMISSION
ONE
with this ad
***
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GEMFAIRE.COM
RG6/19
America’s Premier Jewelry & Bead Faires
GEM FAIRE
2020
JAN. 3, 4, 5
JAN. 10, 11, 12
JAN. 17, 18, 19
JAN. 31, FEB. 1, 2
FEB. 14, 15, 16
FEB. 28, 29, MAR. 1
FEB. 28, 29, MAR. 1
MAR. 6, 7, 8
MAR. 13, 14, 15
MAR. 14 & 15
MAR. 20, 21, 22
MAR. 27, 28, 29
APR. 3, 4, 5
APR. 17, 18, 19
APR. 24, 25, 26
MAY 1, 2, 3
MAY 8, 9, 10
...........
...........
...........
...........
...........
...........
...........
...........
...........
...........
...........
...........
...........
...........
...........
...........
...........
SANTA ROSA, CA
DEL MAR, CA
SAN RAFAEL, CA
ROSEVILLE, CA
SANTA BARBARA, CA
COSTA MESA, CA
JACKSONVILLE, FL
DEL MAR, CA
PUYALLUP, WA
NAPLES, FL
PORTLAND, OR
SALT LAKE CITY, UT
EUGENE, OR
SANTA ROSA, CA
SAN DIEGO, CA
PLEASANTON, CA
SACRAMENTO, CA
SCHEDULE
Gem Faire
produces
nearly
50 shows
a year
JOIN GEM FAIRE COMMUNITY
ü competitive booth prices
ü professional booth set up
ü earn high profits!
First Name __________________________________________________
Last Name __________________________________________________
Address_____________________________________________________
City______________________________State________Zip____________
*Complete & bring this ad to receive one free admission. General admission $7. 
Limit one per person. Property of Gem Faire, Inc. Can be revoked without notice.
Cannot be combined with other offers. Non-transferrable.
RG2/20
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GEMFAIRE.COM
JEWELRYCRYSTALSGEMSBEADSMINERALS
ADMISSION
ONE
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JEWELRYGEMS
BEADSMINERALS
West Coast’s Premier Jewelry & Bead Faires
GEM FAIRE
Gem Faire
produces
nearly
50 shows
a year
JOIN GEM FAIRE COMMUNITY
ü competitive booth prices
ü professional booth set up
ü earn high profits!
First ________________________________
Last ________________________________
Address _____________________________
____________________________________
City_________________________________
State___________ Zip__________________
Complete & bring this ad to receive one 
free admission. General admission $7. 
Limit one per person. Property of 
Gem Faire, Inc. Can be revoked without 
notice. Cannot be combined with other 
offers. Non-transferrable.
2019
MAY 17, 18, 19
MAY 31, JUN. 1, 2
JUN. 7, 8, 9
JUN. 28, 29, 30
JUL. 5, 6, 7
JUL. 12, 13, 14
JUL. 19, 20, 21
AUG. 2, 3, 4
AUG. 9, 10, 11
AUG. 16, 17, 18
AUG. 23, 24, 25
AUG. 30, 31, SEP. 1
COSTA MESA, CA
TULSA, OK
SALT LAKE CITY, UT
SAN DIEGO, CA
EUGENE, OR
PORTLAND, OR
SAN RAFAEL, CA
PLEASANTON, CA
SACRAMENTO, CA
SANTA BARBARA, CA
COSTA MESA, CA
SAN DIEGO, CA
SCHEDULE
FREE ADMISSION
ONE
with this ad
***
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GEMFAIRE.COM
RG6/19
America’s Premier Jewelry & Bead Faires
GEM FAIRE
2020
JAN. 3, 4, 5
JAN. 10, 11, 12
JAN. 17, 18, 19
JAN. 31, FEB. 1, 2
FEB. 14, 15, 16
FEB. 28, 29, MAR. 1
FEB. 28, 29, MAR. 1
MAR. 6, 7, 8
MAR. 13, 14, 15
MAR. 14 & 15
MAR. 20, 21, 22
MAR. 27, 28, 29
APR. 3, 4, 5
APR. 17, 18, 19
APR. 24, 25, 26
MAY 1, 2, 3
MAY 8, 9, 10
...........
...........
...........
...........
...........
...........
...........
...........
...........
...........
...........
...........
...........
...........
...........
...........
...........
SANTA ROSA, CA
DEL MAR, CA
SAN RAFAEL, CA
ROSEVILLE, CA
SANTA BARBARA, CA
COSTA MESA, CA
JACKSONVILLE, FL
DEL MAR, CA
PUYALLUP, WA
NAPLES, FL
PORTLAND, OR
SALT LAKE CITY, UT
EUGENE, OR
SANTA ROSA, CA
SAN DIEGO, CA
PLEASANTON, CA
SACRAMENTO, CA
SCHEDULE
Gem Faire
produces
nearly
50 shows
a year
JOIN GEM FAIRE COMMUNITY
ü competitive booth prices
ü professional booth set up
ü earn high profits!
First Name __________________________________________________
Last Name __________________________________________________
Address_____________________________________________________
City______________________________State________Zip____________
*Complete & bring this ad to receive one free admission. General admission $7. 
Limit one per person. Property of Gem Faire, Inc. Can be revoked without notice.
Cannot be combined with other offers. Non-transferrable.
RG2/20
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JEWELRYCRYSTALSGEMSBEADSMINERALS
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JEWELRYGEMS
BEADSMINERALS
West Coast’s Premier Jewelry & Bead Faires
GEM FAIRE
Gem Faire
produces
nearly
50 shows
a year
JOIN GEM FAIRE COMMUNITY
ü competitive booth prices
ü professional booth set up
ü earn high profits!
First ________________________________
Last ________________________________
Address _____________________________
____________________________________
City_________________________________
State___________ Zip__________________
Complete & bring this ad to receive one 
free admission. General admission $7. 
Limit one per person. Property of 
Gem Faire, Inc. Can be revoked without 
notice. Cannot be combined with other 
offers. Non-transferrable.
2019
MAY 17, 18, 19
MAY 31, JUN. 1, 2
JUN. 7, 8, 9
JUN. 28, 29, 30
JUL. 5, 6, 7
JUL. 12, 13, 14
JUL. 19, 20, 21
AUG. 2, 3, 4
AUG. 9, 10, 11
AUG. 16, 17, 18
AUG. 23, 24, 25
AUG. 30, 31, SEP. 1
COSTA MESA, CA
TULSA, OK
SALT LAKE CITY, UT
SAN DIEGO, CA
EUGENE, OR
PORTLAND, OR
SAN RAFAEL, CA
PLEASANTON, CA
SACRAMENTO, CA
SANTA BARBARA, CA
COSTA MESA, CA
SAN DIEGO,CA
SCHEDULE
FREE ADMISSION
ONE
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***
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RG6/19
CRYSTALSPEARLS
JEWELRYGEMS
BEADSMINERALS
America’s Premier Jewelry & Bead Faires
GEM FAIRE
Gem Faire
produces
nearly
50 shows
a year
JOIN GEM FAIRE COMMUNITY
ü competitive booth prices
ü professional booth set up
ü earn high profits!
First ________________________________
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Address _____________________________
____________________________________
City_________________________________
State___________ Zip__________________
Complete & bring this ad to receive one 
free admission. General admission $7. 
Limit one per person. Property of 
Gem Faire, Inc. Can be revoked without 
notice. Cannot be combined with other 
offers. Non-transferrable.
2020
MAY 8, 9, 10
MAY 15, 16, 17
MAY 22, 23, 24
MAY 29, 30, 31
JUN. 12, 13, 14
JUN. 19, 20, 21
JUN. 26, 27, 28
JUL. 3, 4, 5
JUL. 17, 18, 19
JUL. 24, 25, 26
JUL. 31, AUG. 1, 2
AUG. 7, 8, 9
SACRAMENTO, CA
COSTA MESA, CA
SANTA BARBARA, CA
TULSA, OK
SANTA ROSA, CA
SAN DIEGO, CA
EUGENE, OR
SALT LAKE CITY, UT
PORTLAND, OR
SAN RAFAEL, CA
PUYALLUP, WA
SACRAMENTO, CA
SCHEDULE
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***
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RG6/20
America’s Premier Jewelry & Bead Faires
GEM FAIRE
2020
JAN. 3, 4, 5
JAN. 10, 11, 12
JAN. 17, 18, 19
JAN. 31, FEB. 1, 2
FEB. 14, 15, 16
FEB. 28, 29, MAR. 1
FEB. 28, 29, MAR. 1
MAR. 6, 7, 8
MAR. 13, 14, 15
MAR. 14 & 15
MAR. 20, 21, 22
MAR. 27, 28, 29
APR. 3, 4, 5
APR. 17, 18, 19
APR. 24, 25, 26
MAY 1, 2, 3
MAY 8, 9, 10
...........
...........
...........
...........
...........
...........
...........
...........
...........
...........
...........
...........
...........
...........
...........
...........
...........
SANTA ROSA, CA
DEL MAR, CA
SAN RAFAEL, CA
ROSEVILLE, CA
SANTA BARBARA, CA
COSTA MESA, CA
JACKSONVILLE, FL
DEL MAR, CA
PUYALLUP, WA
NAPLES, FL
PORTLAND, OR
SALT LAKE CITY, UT
EUGENE, OR
SANTA ROSA, CA
SAN DIEGO, CA
PLEASANTON, CA
SACRAMENTO, CA
SCHEDULE
Gem Faire
produces
nearly
50 shows
a year
JOIN GEM FAIRE COMMUNITY
ü competitive booth prices
ü professional booth set up
ü earn high profits!
First Name __________________________________________________
Last Name __________________________________________________
Address_____________________________________________________
City______________________________State________Zip____________
*Complete & bring this ad to receive one free admission. General admission $7. 
Limit one per person. Property of Gem Faire, Inc. Can be revoked without notice.
Cannot be combined with other offers. Non-transferrable.
RG2/20
Reserve Your Booth Space at 
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JEWELRYCRYSTALSGEMSBEADSMINERALS
ADMISSION
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CRYSTALSPEARLS
JEWELRYGEMS
BEADSMINERALS
West Coast’s Premier Jewelry & Bead Faires
GEM FAIRE
Gem Faire
produces
nearly
50 shows
a year
JOIN GEM FAIRE COMMUNITY
ü competitive booth prices
ü professional booth set up
ü earn high profits!
First ________________________________
Last ________________________________
Address _____________________________
____________________________________
City_________________________________
State___________ Zip__________________
Complete & bring this ad to receive one 
free admission. General admission $7. 
Limit one per person. Property of 
Gem Faire, Inc. Can be revoked without 
notice. Cannot be combined with other 
offers. Non-transferrable.
2019
MAY 17, 18, 19
MAY 31, JUN. 1, 2
JUN. 7, 8, 9
JUN. 28, 29, 30
JUL. 5, 6, 7
JUL. 12, 13, 14
JUL. 19, 20, 21
AUG. 2, 3, 4
AUG. 9, 10, 11
AUG. 16, 17, 18
AUG. 23, 24, 25
AUG. 30, 31, SEP. 1
COSTA MESA, CA
TULSA, OK
SALT LAKE CITY, UT
SAN DIEGO, CA
EUGENE, OR
PORTLAND, OR
SAN RAFAEL, CA
PLEASANTON, CA
SACRAMENTO, CA
SANTA BARBARA, CA
COSTA MESA, CA
SAN DIEGO, CA
SCHEDULE
FREE ADMISSION
ONE
with this ad
***
Reserve Your Booth Space at 
GEMFAIRE.COM
RG6/19
America’s Premier Jewelry & Bead Faires
GEM FAIRE
2020
JAN. 3, 4, 5
JAN. 10, 11, 12
JAN. 17, 18, 19
JAN. 31, FEB. 1, 2
FEB. 14, 15, 16
FEB. 28, 29, MAR. 1
FEB. 28, 29, MAR. 1
MAR. 6, 7, 8
MAR. 13, 14, 15
MAR. 14 & 15
MAR. 20, 21, 22
MAR. 27, 28, 29
APR. 3, 4, 5
APR. 17, 18, 19
APR. 24, 25, 26
MAY 1, 2, 3
MAY 8, 9, 10
...........
...........
...........
...........
...........
...........
...........
...........
...........
...........
...........
...........
...........
...........
...........
...........
...........
SANTA ROSA, CA
DEL MAR, CA
SAN RAFAEL, CA
ROSEVILLE, CA
SANTA BARBARA, CA
COSTA MESA, CA
JACKSONVILLE, FL
DEL MAR, CA
PUYALLUP, WA
NAPLES, FL
PORTLAND, OR
SALT LAKE CITY, UT
EUGENE, OR
SANTA ROSA, CA
SAN DIEGO, CA
PLEASANTON, CA
SACRAMENTO, CA
SCHEDULE
Gem Faire
produces
nearly
50 shows
a year
JOIN GEM FAIRE COMMUNITY
ü competitive booth prices
ü professional booth set up
ü earn high profits!
First Name __________________________________________________
Last Name __________________________________________________
Address_____________________________________________________
City______________________________State________Zip____________
*Complete & bring this ad to receive one free admission. General admission $7. 
Limit one per person. Property of Gem Faire, Inc. Can be revoked without notice.
Cannot be combined with other offers. Non-transferrable.
RG2/20
Reserve Your Booth Space at 
GEMFAIRE.COM
JEWELRYCRYSTALSGEMSBEADSMINERALS
ADMISSION
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FREE
CRYSTALSPEARLS
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R & G c o m m u n i t y o u t l o o k 
Laura Hiser
Erin Dana Balzrette: What material did you use 
to make this cab, and what drew you to it?
Laura Hiser: Bou Hamza agate from Morocco. The 
striking colors that seem to “splash” together are 
just amazing to me. I have had Moroccan stone 
before, but once I acquired the Bou Hamza, I 
became obsessed with its unusual beauty.
EDB: How long have you been a 
rockhond and lapidary artist, and 
what attracted you to cabbing?
LH: I was introduced to rocks 
by a family friend just over seven 
years ago. His garage was and still is 
bursting at the seams with rocks and 
fossils sort of like a “Rock Awesome 
Land.” I have been rockhounding and 
collecting since this introduction.
Initially, I was drawn more to 
collecting/buying/trading rough 
stone because I thought you needed 
special training to make cabs. But 
after going through Facebook with a 
friend and looking at all of the wonder-
ful cabs, I decided it was time to try. 
I started cabbing on an old machine I 
bought for $50 years ago. I am still truly 
amazed at the beauty that can be made 
from something we dig out of the ground.
EDB: What creative process do you use when 
creating cabs? Isthere any special technique 
used when creating the ones featured today?
LH: It is certainly an ongoing process for me. 
I don’t think I have a consistent way of creating. 
I learn from each cab I make and also by watch-
ing and looking at work done by all of the amazing 
cabers out there. I have learned to look for that “One 
Great Cab.” So, if I only get one cab out of a large 
slab that’s fi ne, as long as it is a superior creation.
EDB: What is a new cabbing approach that is 
bringing you great excitement?
LH: I saw a good friend post a 
“double-domed” cab. That will be 
my next cabbing adventure.
EDB: What advice you would like 
to give new lapidary artists?
LH: Don’t overthink it. Just get 
out there and try! I have talked with 
a lot of people who say they would 
love to cab but just can’t afford to 
get into it. And yes, a new cabbing 
machine with upgraded wheels, etc 
can be an overwhelming cost. But 
used equipment is out there and 
always available. Again, I bought my 
cabbing machine for $50 and put 
on some used wheels. While I have 
upgraded the wheels over time, it is 
still the machine I use today. Anyone 
can do this. You just have to try.
EDB: What is your motivation 
to create, and your favorite 
part of the process?
LH: I think because I have such a love 
for rocks, the chance to create a beautiful 
gem piece out of one is my motivation. 
I also love showing them off and getting 
feedback. The feedback is both positive sup-
port and constructive, but it drives me to keep 
getting better. My favorite part is sitting in the 
evening with a slab, template, and a sharpie and 
deciding how to get the best cab out of each slab.
WHERE TO FIND LAURA HISER
Facebook Groups
www.facebook.com/groups/CABSANDSLABS
Erin Dana Balzrette: What material did you use Erin Dana Balzrette: What material did you use 
to make this cab, and what drew you to it?to make this cab, and what drew you to it?
Laura Hiser: Bou Hamza agate from Morocco. The Bou Hamza agate from Morocco. The 
striking colors that seem to “splash” together are striking colors that seem to “splash” together are 
just amazing to me. I have had Moroccan stone just amazing to me. I have had Moroccan stone 
before, but once I acquired the Bou Hamza, I before, but once I acquired the Bou Hamza, I 
became obsessed with its unusual beauty.became obsessed with its unusual beauty.
EDB: How long have you been a EDB: How long have you been a 
rockhond and lapidary artist, and rockhond and lapidary artist, and 
what attracted you to cabbing?what attracted you to cabbing?
LH: I was introduced to rocks I was introduced to rocks 
by a family friend just over seven by a family friend just over seven 
years ago. His garage was and still is years ago. His garage was and still is 
bursting at the seams with rocks and bursting at the seams with rocks and 
fossils sort of like a “Rock Awesome fossils sort of like a “Rock Awesome 
Land.” I have been rockhounding and Land.” I have been rockhounding and 
collecting since this introduction.collecting since this introduction.
Initially, I was drawn more to Initially, I was drawn more to 
collecting/buying/trading rough collecting/buying/trading rough 
stone because I thought you needed stone because I thought you needed 
special training to make cabs. But special training to make cabs. But 
after going through Facebook with a after going through Facebook with a 
friend and looking at all of the wonder-friend and looking at all of the wonder-
ful cabs, I decided it was time to try. ful cabs, I decided it was time to try. 
I started cabbing on an old machine I I started cabbing on an old machine I 
bought for $50 years ago. I am still truly bought for $50 years ago. I am still truly 
amazed at the beauty that can be made amazed at the beauty that can be made 
from something we dig out of the ground.from something we dig out of the ground.
EDB: What creative process do you use when EDB: What creative process do you use when 
creating cabs? Is there any special technique creating cabs? Is there any special technique 
used when creating the ones featured today?used when creating the ones featured today?
 It is certainly an ongoing process for me. It is certainly an ongoing process for me. 
I don’t think I have a consistent way of creating. I don’t think I have a consistent way of creating. 
I learn from each cab I make and also by watch-I learn from each cab I make and also by watch-
ing and looking at work done by all of the amazing ing and looking at work done by all of the amazing 
cabers out there. I have learned to look for that “One cabers out there. I have learned to look for that “One 
Great Cab.” So, if I only get one cab out of a large Great Cab.” So, if I only get one cab out of a large 
slab that’s fi ne, as long as it is a superior creation.
EDB: What is a new cabbing approach that is 
bringing you great excitement?
LH: I saw a good friend post a 
“double-domed” cab. That will be 
my next cabbing adventure.
EDB: What advice you would like 
to give new lapidary artists?
LH: Don’t overthink it. Just get 
out there and try! I have talked with 
a lot of people who say they would 
love to cab but just can’t afford to 
get into it. And yes, a new cabbing 
machine with upgraded wheels, etc 
can be an overwhelming cost. But 
used equipment is out there and 
always available. Again, I bought my 
cabbing machine for $50 and put 
on some used wheels. While I have 
upgraded the wheels over time, it is 
still the machine I use today. Anyone 
can do this. You just have to try.
EDB: What is your motivation 
to create, and your favorite 
part of the process?
LH: I think because I have such a love 
for rocks, the chance to create a beautiful 
gem piece out of one is my motivation. 
I also love showing them off and getting 
feedback. The feedback is both positive sup-
port and constructive, but it drives me to keep 
getting better. My favorite part is sitting in the 
evening with a slab, template, and a sharpie and 
deciding how to get the best cab out of each slab.
WHERE TO FIND LAURA HISER
 Bou Hamza agate from Morocco. The 
striking colors that seem to “splash” together are 
just amazing to me. I have had Moroccan stone 
before, but once I acquired the Bou Hamza, I 
became obsessed with its unusual beauty.
friend and looking at all of the wonder-
bought for $50 years ago. I am still truly 
from something we dig out of the ground.
EDB: What creative process do you use when 
creating cabs? Is there any special technique 
used when creating the ones featured today?
 It is certainly an ongoing process for me. 
I don’t think I have a consistent way of creating. 
LH:
“double-domed” cab. That will be 
my next cabbing adventure.
EDB: What advice you would like 
EDB: What is your motivation 
to create, and your favorite 
part of the process?
for rocks, the chance to create a beautiful 
gem piece out of one is my motivation. 
I also love showing them off and getting 
feedback. The feedback is both positive sup-
port and constructive, but it drives me to keep 
getting better. My favorite part is sitting in the 
evening with a slab, template, and a sharpie and 
deciding how to get the best cab out of each slab.
I had the good fortune of getting to know Laura Hiser a couple of years ago. She is an 
outstanding artist, as well as endlessly positive and upbeat. I am grateful for the chance 
to get to know her and hear stories about her wonderful dog, Buddy. Sit back and enjoy 
learning more about this talented and inspiring artist and person.
16 ROCK&GEM | WWW.ROCKNGEM.COM
O F F T H E W H E E L S
Erin Dana Balzrette
R & G c o m m u n i t y o u t l o o k 
Q U E S T I O N O F T H E M O N T H
How do you feel after sharing your 
knowledge or skills with someone new?
Sharing knowledge is part of the learning process. 
New people entering this hobby/business look forthat 
knowledge that is not available in books. I love sharing 
what I have learned and also look to those who have 
been around for a long time for new knowledge. 
– Paul R. 
I love the look in my 
grandkids eyes when they 
see a new crystal and 
learn about how it grew 
— our amazing Earth.
– D&LCouch
I love being able to share what I’ve 
learned.I’ve collected rocks and minerals 
for over 50 years, and when I began there 
was no one around to be a mentor to me, 
so I learned what I could where I could. 
Over the years, I have tried to pass what 
I’ve learned on to others who are just 
beginning. I am by no means an authority 
on the subject, I just try to be the help 
that I wish was around when I started out. 
Every time I’m able to answer a question 
or point someone in the right direction the 
feeling is quite rewarding, nothing like it. 
– J. Ford
After getting near retirement age I decided it was time to start 
sharing my 50 years of knowledge in jewelry and lapidary. I 
dusted off my never-used teaching degree and began to teach 
at a local art school, and I have kept teaching since, in one way 
or another. I just love teaching and feel it is an obligation of 
those who know how to share with those who want to learn. 
– B. McKay
A couple of years ago, I received a 
random email from a guy who lives in the 
northeastern US. He wrote about how he 
was done with life and ready to give up and 
leave this earth, literally. He was on YouTube 
and came across one of my videos of crystal 
collecting in Arkansas. He wrote that he had 
not known about crystals, and how they 
grow and come out of the ground this way. 
So, he drove to Arkansas ASAP and dug 
crystals at Twin Creek with Bobby. After 
that he said it completely saved his life and 
gave him some type of meaning for living.
After reading his email, it really shook 
me hard and gave me much ambition to 
continue to make YouTube videos. It’s one 
of the reasons I continually put so much 
effort into traveling and making the videos 
I do. Digging rocks can be life changing 
for some, in ways that most of us might 
not imagine. It for sure changed my life. 
P.S. Visit www.youtube.com/c/
TheCrystalCollector to join The 
Crystal Collector in his excursions!
– The Crystal Collector
 WWW.ROCKNGEM.COM | APRIL 2021 17
18 ROCK&GEM | WWW.ROCKNGEM.COM 
BY BOB RUSHBENCHTIPS
Bob Rush has worked in lapidary since 1958 and 
metal work and jewelry since 1972.
He teaches at clubs and Modesto Junior College. 
Contact him at rocksbob@sbcglobal.net.
Searching for the Perfect Slab
Use the side of the bur to start the hole on the slab. 
ALL PHOTOS BOB RUSH
Using tumbling media, sand the hole using 
a wood piece shaped to fit the hole.
The size and location of the hole 
was exactly where I wanted it.
O
ften, as I am searching my mind for the next 
project, I get stuck on a certain image that 
requires a unique feature that is difficult 
to find in a lapidary material. As usual, I 
fall back on my old faithful stock of Brazilian agate. 
This material is plentiful in larger sizes, with various 
pat-terns, colors, and the absence of pits, vugs and 
fractures. As I’m slabbing, I look for the potential 
images and patterns that I think would make an 
unusual cab. Sometimes, I unconsciously set aside 
those pat-terns that especially intrigue me, so if at a 
later date with a bit of searching, I can find them.
For this month’s project, I wanted a piece I could carve 
an image of a sun rising (or setting) behind a mountain. 
I remember purposefully set-ting aside three small slabs 
that had the potential for this project. I even remem-
bered where I should look for them, so they were some-
what quickly found. The main criteria for this project: 
the piece must have a rather translucent area above 
the background so the pattern would show through to 
the front. I also wanted the background dense enough 
that it blocks the bottom of the carved area. I had the 
option of having nothing else in the “sky” on two of the 
slabs, but on the third, there was a “cloud” that I could 
position in the image, so I chose it for this project. 
All three slabs were a bit thicker than I wanted at 
one-quarter thick. This fact required me to carve the 
image deeper to make it show through the translucent 
area. The sun is carved to within 2mm of the front. 
I used a special caliper to measure this depth. I had 
to ensure the sun image was located correctly and of 
the right size for the space available on the slab. I also 
wanted the sun image to be about halfway above the 
top of the hill horizon. Once I had it located, I started 
the hole with a small one-eighth inch diamond bur. 
Drilling Tip: You have to tilt the bit in on its side to 
drill with it in this circumstance. If you try to drill with 
it vertically, it is a slow process because the center of 
the bit is just spinning in one place and not removing 
much material. Tilting it on its side means there is a 
constant spinning surface doing the drilling. Before 
finishing the hole, you need to tip it vertically and 
move it about to ensure the hole is perfectly round. 
I drilled the hole with a one-half inch diamond ball 
bur to within 2mm from the front of the cab. I followed 
this by cutting the sun’s rays with a one-half inch 
diamond “V” bur. In the last steps I finished the work 
by sanding the hole with 220 and 600 grit tumbling 
media utilizing a soft wood dowel mounted on a screw 
mandrel. I shaped this with a file to match the hole. 
I sanded the rays with a one-half inch wood dowel 
shaped into a V and the same 220 and 600 grit media.
The polishing was done with Rapid Polish and 
appropriately shaped wood dowels to finish the project. 
The sun came out perfectly in size and location, 
producing an outcome with which I was pleased. 
WWW.ROCKNGEM.COM | APRIL 2021 19
June 18th, 19th, & 20th
Sublette County Rock Hounds
Gem & Mineral 
Show 2021
Hosting the annual CONVENTIONS of the
American Federation of Mineralogical Societies
Contact: 
jimgray@wyoming.com or schafma1@hotmail.com
Admission: $2.00 adults, kids free
Dealers, demonstrators, exhibits, fi eld trips, fl uorescent mineral 
display, kids’ activities, food concession & more!
Friday & Saturday 9-5, Sunday 9-4
Rocky Mountain Federation of 
Mineralogical Societies
at the Sublette County Fairgrounds 
10937 Hwy 189, Big Piney, Wyoming
Y
20 ROCK&GEM | WWW.ROCKNGEM.COM
Artisanal miners work 
atop a vertical, open-
pit mine wall in the 
Hpakan Jade Tract. 
ALL PHOTOS COURTESY 
WIKIMEDIA COMMONS
S T O R Y BY S T E V E V OY N I C K
T H E S T O R Y O F 
M Y A N M A R ’ S J A D E I T E
JADE
Burmese
 WWW.ROCKNGEM.COM | APRIL 2021 21
I
n the 1990s, Richard Hughes 
was one of the fi rst western 
gemologists and authors to visit 
Myanmar in three decades. After 
touring that nation’s jade mines and 
markets, he described the jade trade 
as “… a spin of the roulette wheel. 
Some will win, more still will lose.”
 Since that time, the production and 
prices of Myanmar’s jade have soared 
to record highs. But one thing has 
not changed: just as Hughes noted, 
that nation’s jade trade still has only a 
few winners and many more losers. 
The Hpakan region of the south-
eastern Asian nation of Myanmar 
(formerly Burma) produces the 
world’s fi nest jade. “Burmese jade,” 
the traditional name preferred by 
the gem trade, is known for its 
exquisite colors, translucency, and 
fvine grain that are unmatched 
by jade from any other source.
Finished pieces of the fi nest Burmese 
jade now sell for thousands of dollars 
per gram, and recent mine recoveries 
have made international headlines. 
In 2015, a Hpakan mine discovered a 
200-ton jade boulder worth $17 mil-
lion. Two years later, miners found a 
50-ton jade boulder worth $3 million. 
Despite their remarkable sizes andvalues, these two fi nds represent only 
a tiny fraction of Myanmar’s annual, 
multi-billion-dollar jade production. 
The dark side of the story of 
Burmese jade, however, is one of 
rampant government corruption, 
environmentally disastrous open-pit 
mining operations, huge profi ts reaped 
only by a few wealthy mine owners, 
and thousands of artisanal miners 
trapped in an endless cycle of poverty, 
drug abuse, and dangerous labor. 
UNDERSTANDING THE MINERALS 
OF THE JADE GEM
The gemological term “jade” 
pertains to two distinct minerals: 
jadeite and nephrite. The pyroxene 
mineral jadeite is a sodium aluminum 
iron silicate; nephrite, a basic 
calcium magnesium iron silicate, is 
a member of the actinolite-tremolite 
series of amphibole minerals. 
As metamorphic minerals, jadeite 
and nephrite occur at subduction 
zones near convergent tectonic-plate 
boundaries. But because of differing 
pressure origins, they are not found 
together. Neither occurs pure. Both 
jadeite jade and nephrite jade are 
technically rocks. Jadeite jade consists 
primarily of the mineral jadeite, along 
with lesser amounts of albite, tremo-
lite, aegerine, and augite. Nephrite con-
sists mainly of intermediate members 
of the actinolite-tremolite series. 
Both jades crystallize in the 
monoclinic system but usually occur 
only in compact or massive forms 
that have a splintery fracture and no 
cleavage. Jadeite is nearly as hard as 
quartz; nephrite is a bit softer. Jadeite’s 
specifi c gravity ranges between 
3.3 and 3.5; nephrite is somewhat 
less dense. The colors of both 
jades vary widely, with green, 
lavender, white, and gray being the 
Hundreds of unlicensed, artisanal miners search 
a Hpakan mine dump for pieces of jadeite.
Dating to the early 1800s, this 20-inch-tall 
table screen was carved from a single piece 
of Burmese jadeite.
22 ROCK&GEM | WWW.ROCKNGEM.COM
B U R M E S E J A D E
most common. The colors of jadeite jade tend to 
be more intense than those of nephrite jade.
While not particularly hard, both jades have 
an unusual texture that imparts extraordinary 
toughness and fracture-resistance. Under a 
scanning-electron microscope, they consist of tightly 
interlocked microscopic crystals and fi bers.
When minerals and rocks fracture, mechanical 
energy travelsv in a trans-granular mode, progress-
ing not around interlocked crystal grains, but 
directly through them. Because jade’s grains 
are randomly aligned, an energy wave must 
change direction with every grain it encounters, 
thusv requiring an unusual amount of 
mechanical energy to propagate a fracture. 
JADE’S RELEVANCE ACROSS MILENNIA
Jade’s toughness made it an ideal material 
for fashioning into Paleolithic and Neo-
lithic hammers, axes, knives, projectile 
points, and other tools and weapons. 
This toughness late enabled stonecutters 
to carve jade into objects of unusual 
intricacy and detail without fracturing.
The Chinese reverence for jade 
surpasses that of all other cultures. 
When Chinese cutters began making 
detailed carvings about 3000 BCE, jade 
was already more than just a gemstone 
and carving medium. Symbolizing beauty, 
grace, purity, and the highest Confucian 
virtues, it soon became ingrained into 
Chinese culture. Even today, the Chinese view jade as 
a bridge between heaven and Earth, with its brightness 
representing heaven and its substance representing Earth. 
For more than four millennia, Chinese cutters 
worked only with nephrite obtained from the Kunlun 
Mountains of far-western China. Then, in the late 
1700s CE, a new jade became available. It came from 
the remote Hpakan region beyond China’s south-
western border and was superior to nephrite in color, 
translucency, workability, and overall appearance. 
The Hpakan region of northernmost Myanmar 
rests atop a tectonic subduction zone where the 
Indian Plate is drawn beneath the Eurasian Plate. 
This crustal subduction generates suffi cient pressure 
to alter peridotite, an ultramafi c igneous rock, into 
serpentinite, a metamorphic rock consisting largely of 
serpentine-group minerals. Much later, regional uplifting 
fractured these serpentinite formations, enabling 
hydrothermal fl uids to emplace dikes of nepheline 
(sodium potassium aluminum silicate) and jadeite. 
Erosion slowly exposed these formations, and 
weathering reduced the serpentinite to sand and 
gravel. Secondary deposition then created forma-
tions of semi-consolidated conglomerate containing 
rounded pieces of the original jadeite dikes. These 
range from pea-sized bits to huge boulders; all have 
drab, yellowish-brown, oxidized surface “rinds” that 
conceal interiors of colorful, translucent jadeite. 
Hpakan jadeite fi rst reached China about 1300 
CE. Chinese cutters admired its beauty and 
workability but were unable to locate its source. 
Only after gaining control of Hpakan in the 
1780s did the Chinese fi nd the source and begin 
systematic mining. In 1798, a trade route called the 
“Jade Road” opened between Hpakan and the 
interior of China. The subsequent steady 
supply of fi ne jadeite quickly inspired 
Chinese cutters to higher levels of creativity. 
A clear mineralogical picture of 
jade began emerging in 1846, when 
French chemist Alexis Damour 
analyzed nephrite and identifi ed it as 
an amphibole mineral. At that time, all 
jade was thought to be nephrite. But in 
1860, during the Second Opium War, 
invading British and French forces sacked 
Beijing’s Summer Palace and shipped 
numerous jade carvings to Europe. 
In 1863, Damour analyzed this newly 
arrived jade and found that it differed 
chemically from nephrite. He identifi ed it as a 
new pyroxene mineral that he named “jadeite.” 
The Jade Road served as a trade route into China 
until World War II. But following the post-war 
an unusual texture that imparts extraordinary 
toughness and fracture-resistance. Under a 
scanning-electron microscope, they consist of tightly 
interlocked microscopic crystals and fi bers.
When minerals and rocks fracture, mechanical 
energy travelsv in a trans-granular mode, progress-
ing not around interlocked crystal grains, but 
directly through them. Because jade’s grains 
are randomly aligned, an energy wave must 
change direction with every grain it encounters, 
thusv requiring an unusual amount of 
mechanical energy to propagate a fracture. 
JADE’S RELEVANCE ACROSS MILENNIA
Jade’s toughness made it an ideal material 
for fashioning into Paleolithic and Neo-
lithic hammers, axes, knives, projectile 
points, and other tools and weapons. 
This toughness late enabled stonecutters 
to carve jade into objects of unusual to carve jade into objects of unusual 
intricacy and detail without fracturing.
The Chinese reverence for jade 
surpasses that of all other cultures. 
When Chinese cutters began making 
detailed carvings about 3000 BCE, jade 
was already more than just a gemstone 
and carving medium. Symbolizing beauty, 
weathering reduced the serpentinite to sand and weathering reduced the serpentinite to sand and 
gravel. Secondary deposition then created forma-gravel. Secondary deposition then created forma-
tions of semi-consolidated conglomerate containing tions of semi-consolidated conglomerate containing 
rounded pieces of the original jadeite dikes. These rounded pieces of the original jadeite dikes. These 
range from pea-sized bits to huge boulders; all have range from pea-sized bits to huge boulders; all have 
drab, yellowish-brown, oxidized surface “rinds” that drab, yellowish-brown, oxidized surface “rinds” that 
conceal interiors of colorful, translucent jadeite. conceal interiors of colorful, translucent jadeite. 
Hpakan jadeite fi rst reached China about 1300 Hpakan jadeite fi rst reached China about 1300 
CE. Chinese cutters admired its beauty and CE. Chinese cutters admired its beauty and 
workabilitybut were unable to locate its source. workability but were unable to locate its source. 
Only after gaining control of Hpakan in the Only after gaining control of Hpakan in the 
1780s did the Chinese fi nd the source and begin 1780s did the Chinese fi nd the source and begin 
systematic mining. In 1798, a trade route called the systematic mining. In 1798, a trade route called the 
“Jade Road” opened between Hpakan and the “Jade Road” opened between Hpakan and the 
interior of China. The subsequent steady interior of China. The subsequent steady 
supply of fi ne jadeite quickly inspired supply of fi ne jadeite quickly inspired 
Chinese cutters to higher levels of creativity. Chinese cutters to higher levels of creativity. 
A clear mineralogical picture of A clear mineralogical picture of 
jade began emerging in 1846, when jade began emerging in 1846, when 
French chemist Alexis Damour French chemist Alexis Damour 
analyzed nephrite and identifi ed it as 
an amphibole mineral. At that time, all 
jade was thought to be nephrite. But in 
1860, during the Second Opium War, 
invading British and French forces sacked 
Beijing’s Summer Palace and shipped 
numerous jade carvings to Europe. 
When minerals and rocks fracture, mechanical 
energy travelsv in a trans-granular mode, progress-
ing not around interlocked crystal grains, but 
directly through them. Because jade’s grains 
are randomly aligned, an energy wave must 
change direction with every grain it encounters, 
mechanical energy to propagate a fracture. 
Jade’s toughness made it an ideal material 
rounded pieces of the original jadeite dikes. These 
range from pea-sized bits to huge boulders; all have 
drab, yellowish-brown, oxidized surface “rinds” that 
conceal interiors of colorful, translucent jadeite. 
Hpakan jadeite fi rst reached China about 1300 
CE. Chinese cutters admired its beauty and 
workability but were unable to locate its source. 
Only after gaining control of Hpakan in the 
1780s did the Chinese fi nd the source and begin 
systematic mining. In 1798, a trade route called the 
“Jade Road” opened between Hpakan and the 
interior of China. The subsequent steady 
supply of fi ne jadeite quickly inspired 
invading British and French forces sacked 
The entrance to the booming Myitkyina jade market.
Accompanied by gold, seed 
pearls, and an amethyst, this 
1.5-inch pendant was carved from 
Burmese jadeite about 1900
 WWW.ROCKNGEM.COM | APRIL 2021 23
B U R M E S E J A D E
Communist takeover of China, the Maoist regime 
discouraged material symbols and possessions 
such as jade. The Jade Road was then abandoned, 
and the jadeite trade shifted to Thailand and the 
then-British Dependent Territory of Hong Kong.
Meanwhile, Burma was undergoing its own 
political upheavals. Following decades as a British 
colony, it became an independent republic in 1948. 
Then, after a 1962 coup, its new military dictator-
ship banned foreigners, nationalized the economy, 
and entered into a period of strict isolationism. 
The 30-mile-long Hpakan Jade Tract is located in 
northern Myanmar’s largely inaccessible Kachin State. 
Populated mainly by separatist ethnic groups, Kachin, 
through its Kachin Independence Organization (KIO), 
has long waged guerilla warfare against the central gov-
ernment, partially funding its activities by taxing Hpak-
an’s thousands of independent, artisanal jade miners. 
JADE MINING
In 1969, Burma’s military government tightened its 
control and banned private gemstone mining. But with 
the government unable to control Kachin State, private 
mining continued in Hpakan, where a black market 
funneled the jadeite to Thailand and Hong Kong. 
But then, following Chinese free-market reforms 
and the decline of the Maoist culture in the 1980s, 
the Jade Road reopened, and Hpakan jadeite 
again began reaching the interior of China. 
In 1988, an even more repressive military govern-
ment took power and changed Burma’s name to 
Myanmar, a derivative of the ancient regional name 
Mranma. Four years later, it negotiated a cease-fi re 
with the KIO and legalized private jade mining. 
Unfortunately, mining licenses were awarded only to 
a few well-connected military and political fi gures. 
This arrangement, which would further enrich these 
already-wealthy mine owners and do nothing to benefi t 
the nation, led to development of large, highly mecha-
nized, open-pit mines. Heavy equipment of Chinese 
and American manufacture could not dig through 
hundreds of feet of conglomerate to search for jadeite. 
Jadeite production increased dramatically, but the huge, 
unregulated mines became environmental disasters. 
While effi cient at high-volume earth moving, these 
mines are ineffi cient at identifying and recovering 
jadeite. Substantial amounts of jadeite therefore end 
up in ever-growing waste dumps that have become a 
This highly mechanized, open-pit operation is one of the largest 
mines in the Hpakan Jade Tract.
(Left) Cutting rough jadeite in the Mandalay jade market. (Center) A cutter in the Mandalay jade market with dop-mounted jadeite 
cabochons ready for fi nal polishing. (Right) Finish jadeite cabochons ready for sale in an outdoor stall at the Mandalay jade market.
24 ROCK&GEM | WWW.ROCKNGEM.COM
magnet for hordes of unlicensed, artisanal miners.
An estimated 12,000 artisanal miners cur-
rently eke out a subsistence living by fi nding and 
selling pieces of discarded jadeite. Risking capture 
by government military patrols and armed mine-
security forces, these miners survive on poor diets in 
ramshackle settlements of lean-to shelters that lack 
sanitation facilities. Many cope with these abysmal 
conditions through the regular use of opium. 
Realistically, the miners hope to fi nd pieces of 
mid-quality jadeite to pay for several more months 
of searching the dumps. But their ultimate goal 
is to fi nd even a small piece of top-quality jadeite 
that can be sold for $1,000 or more—a small 
fortune for hand-to-mouth artisanal miners 
with no other employment opportunities. 
The steep mine dumps rise as high 400 feet 
above the bottom of the open pits and are 
extremely dangerous. Loaded from the top by 
huge ore-haulage trucks, the dumps stand at the 
limits of geological competence. Continuous dump-
ing operations, digging by artisanal miners, and a 
long rainy season contribute to their instability. 
In the last eight years, more than 1,000 miners 
have died in dump landslides with many more 
seriously injured. In 2015, a dump landslide killed 
130 artisanal miners; three more landslides since 
have each killed at least 50 others. Nevertheless, 
soaring jade prices continue to lure more artisanal 
miners than ever to the dangerous dumps. 
Driven by strong Chinese buying, jade 
prices had begun climbing rapidly in the 1990s. To 
take advantage of the booming jadeite trade, the 
prestigious international auction houses Christie’s 
and Sotheby’s opened Hong Kong offi ces. 
In 1997, Christie’s auctioned the legendary 
“Doubly Fortunate” necklace of 65 stunning half-inch-
diameter jadeite beads. The necklace’s name came 
from the original owner of the rough from which 
the beads were cut, who reportedly encountered only 
higher grades of jadeite each time he cut the stone, 
thus “doubling his fortune.” The necklace sold for 
an astounding $9.39 million, then an all-time record 
for jade, but one that would soon be broken. 
By 2005, the big Hpakan mines were collectively 
accruing annual profi ts of a half-billion dollars. The 
United States Congress, concerned over the governmen-
tal corruption and human-rights abuses that plagued 
Hpakan jadeite mining, passed a 2008 act that limited 
the importation of Myanmar jadeite (and rubies) 
to hopefully curtail the profi ts of Myanmar’s mine 
owners. But this now-rescinded act had little effect, 
and the open-pit