Jasper

What is Jasper? Jasper is a variety of Quartz/Chalcedony. (Actually, Quartz is the most abundant mineral on earth, so it is a building block of many stones including, Jasper, Agates, Amethyst, Citrine, Chalcedony and more.)

What colors does Jasper come in? Unlike the clear Quartz we normally think of, Jasper is opaque and comes in a variety of earth colors and types. Sometimes, a piece can include a range of colors and designs. Jasper can come in reds, beige, whites, greens, tans, and more. It often has bands or crystalline circles of color.

What are the types of Jasper? Some better known varieties of it include Ocean Jasper, Picture Jasper, Leopardskin Jasper, Poppy Jasper and Dalmatian Jasper.

Where does Jasper come from? Jasper is found all over the world, including in many areas of the Western United States. It is also the state rock of Massachusetts. When we see it in jewelry, it is usually polished and shining.

What are the metaphysical properties of Jasper? Jasper has been used for decoration for thousands of years, and some cultures believe it will drive away evil spirits. It is often found in scarab design jewelry both modern and from ancient Egypt.

How do I clean and care for Jasper? Jasper is a durable stone that is easily cleaned. Unless is is dyed, you can clean it with mild soap and water, then polish it with a dry towel. With dyed Jasper (which is uncommon,) you can dust it lightly with a dry cloth. As with all jewelry, take care not to strike it against a hard surface.