Jasper

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Jasper is an opaque variety of  cryptocrystalline Quartz which incorporates various amounts of other materials which bring about its colour and opacity.  Its name means spotted or speckled stone and it comes in an endless variety of colours and patterns.  The red colour in Red Jasper comes from Hematite, clay causes a yellowish, white or grey colour and Goethite produces brown or yellow Jasper.  Very fine grained Mudstone or Siltstone can produce ultra fine particulate Jaspers that result in high polish and nearly invisible grain, these are sometimes referred to as Porcelain Jasper and are among the finest quality gemstones that are available.

It has been used for jewellery and ornaments for thousands of years and the Babylonians believed it influenced women's diseases and was a symbol of childbirth.  It is referenced in Greek, Hebrew, Assyrian and Latin literature and in the Bible, (Exodus 28.20) it is mentioned as being one of the gemstones in the High Priest's breastplate, a ritual garment worn by the Jewish high priest.

With regards to crystal healing, it sustains and supports during times of stress and unifies all aspects of life.  It can help support shamanic journeys, dowsing and dream recall.  It is a stone of protection which absorbs negative energy and balances the yin and yang.  Jasper can bring the courage to deal with problems assertively and encourage you to be honest with yourself.  It imparts determination in everything you do and supports in times of conflict.  It aids quick thinking, promotes organizational abilities and helps ensure projects are seen through to conclusion.  It also stimulates imagination transforming ideas into action.  

There are hundreds of different varieties and these are just some that we feature in our collection:

Dalmatian

Imperial

Kambaba

Koi

Landscape

Leopardskin

Mookaite (from Australia)

Noreena

Ocean

Picasso

Picture

Polychrome

Poppy

Red

Snakeskin

Willow Creek

Zebra

 

Jasper is graded as 6.5 to 7 on Mohs scale of mineral hardness so it's a good choice for use in jewellery.  Gemstones are usually cut as cabochons.

Our recommendations for further reading on Jasper:
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Our collection of Jasper jewellery

 

 

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