Material reference

Madagascar Jasper · Sigla ng Lupa

Scientific identity, documented history, and community contexts are presented with sources. TÁWID’s contemporary design interpretation is identified separately.

Material identity

Jasper is an opaque, fine-grained silica material valued for its colour and patterns. “Madagascar Jasper” is a broad commercial description that includes a geographical claim; it does not identify one particular deposit or mineral assemblage. A product’s pattern, verified composition and documented source are separate characteristics. [1]

Documented historical context

A specific example in the wider jasper family is the Met’s red-jasper seal bead with a baboon of Ramesses II, catalogued to Egypt and about 1208–1202 BCE. The object is only 1.2 cm long, showing jasper fashioned into a small, image-bearing object. Its royal association and seal-bead form belong to an identifiable Egyptian setting.

This is comparative history of jasper, not evidence that the bead was made from Madagascan material or that a contemporary “Madagascar Jasper” bracelet has an Egyptian origin. The references checked for this guide do not establish an early community use or discovery date for the modern commercial label. [2]

TÁWID’s contemporary interpretation

Sigla ng Lupa is TÁWID’s contemporary reflection on the work and care that sustain livelihoods.

Material note

The supplier’s source documentation is needed before attributing an individual piece to Madagascar. The product name does not establish an Austronesian cultural use.

References

1. US Geological Survey, “Natural Gemstones: Mineral Gemstones”
2. Metropolitan Museum of Art, “Seal bead with a baboon of Ramesses II,” Egypt, ca.1208–1202 BCE,26.7.224

How to read the material guide · Ask about a bracelet