Jasper - A Touchstone
3 min reading time
Jasper is a type of chalcedony and comes in multiple colors: red, yellow, brown or green, but rarely blue. It is found in almost every country of the world. The colors are determined by the impurities such as iron, manganese and other oxides, dioxides, metals or organic matter. Red is the most sought after of colors.
A recent query on google yielded 24 distinct types of jasper. We have a few here at Sundara Joon and are always keen to add more jewelry containing this special stone.
Mookaite: this type of Jasper hails from Australia and prehistoric fossils may often be included. It comes in deep red to bright yellow, white, tan, brown, pink and purple. It is considered a powerful healing stone. It promotes a willingness to accept change and new experiences as well as a guide to the right direction to take.
Red Jasper: this stone is deep red and a favorite in ancient Egypt. It is also known as the stone of endurance. Similar to red jasper, is the cave creek jasper.
It also has an array of patterns from spotted, to striped or other design. Indeed, the name is derived from the Greek word, “spotted one”. In ancient times it was held in such high regard as to be considered holy.
Jasper is a 6.5 – 7.5 out of 10 on the Mohrs scale making it perfect for everyday wear.
Why is Jasper Special?
Jasper is the birthstone of February and March. The variety of colors and designs it can be found in means it can delivery different looks almost on demand.
Jasper is known of its healing qualities and is thought to promote peace and tranquility. Its long been a talisman used to ward off negative energy and protect the wearer from harm.
Jasper has been used to test for gold content of alloys by rubbing them with a piece of this stone, also known as a touchstone. The term touchstone extends to mean something is judged or recognized, implying value or quality.
Jasper has been used in jewelry making for thousands of years. Kings, queens, priests and shaman have all been known to wear jewelry with this colorful stone.
How to Care for Jasper Jewelry:
Use a soft cloth and gentle soap and water to clean the jasper. Follow the cleaning with a soft dry cloth should do the trick.
Try to prevent cosmetics, lotions, sunscreens from encountering the stone. This stone also needs to be kept out of the sunlight as extended exposure will dull its brilliant colors.
Our artist friends here at Sundara Joon have been hard at work making some beautiful pieces incorporating this special stone. Check out their special jewelry for yourself. Jasper is a wonderfully popular stone on its own but is equally lovely when paired with other colorful gemstones.
Still Want More?
- GIA – Dalmatian jasper
- Crystal Vaults – types of Jasper
- Jasper – birthstone guide
- Stone Mania - Jasper