Cayucos Jasper

Brecciated Jasper

I'm still poring over the 100 lbs of stones I brought back from California last week (the back of my car riding very low). I had a chance to cut open some of the larger pieces, many of which are of a  brecciated jasper that is common in this part of the Coast range (and several other parts of California).  This one is about 8" inches across and shows a fractured yellow-red jasper with a milky quartz filling.

Not a great picture, I admit, but you get the idea. Not sure how the quartz will polish, but we'll give it a try.  The diversity of the rocks along this coast is truly remarkable.  I suggest walking up Toro Creek near Cayucos, or for the best material, head straight to San Simeon Beach. Wow.