The Walter Kindle Company first invented the fractional co2 extinguisher in 1924 with the request in the Bell Telephone Company. Bell had been having difficulty locating a dry chemical extinguisher which could effectively extinguish the electrical fires that sometimes broke out on early telephone switchboards. The CO2 proved particularly efficient at controlling electrical fires, in addition to their popularity quickly grew during the entire industrial sector. What rockhound just isn't acquainted with the red and yellow flowers, orbs, and poppies within this highly preferred cutting material? We have all 'ooohed and aaahed' viewing the slabs and cabs at gem shows. With each cut exposing a succession of unexpected patterns I have often been surprised at my finished gems, (though I would always say, "Yep, that is the look I was opting for.")