Despite its name, Bumblebee Jasper is not a true jasper Instead, it is a silicified volcanic material composed mainly of Sulfur Arsenic Manganese oxides and pyrite. The banded yellow-orange-black patterns resemble the coloration of a bumblebee — hence the trade name.

The only known source is Mount Papandayan, an active volcano in West Java, Indonesia. It forms in fumarolic (volcanic gas vent) environments, where hot volcanic gases interact with surrounding rocks, depositing sulfur and arsenic minerals. The material is relatively soft compared to true jasper, usually in the Mohs 4–5 range, depending on the silica content.

Since it only comes from one volcanic source in Indonesia, supply is limited. Good, stable, vividly banded material is highly sought after by collectors. Prices for high-quality cabochons and large slabs have risen over the past decade as availability fluctuates with mining access.

This stone does contain arsenic which is toxic, working with this stone requires care taking care not to inhale any of the dust.