Jazzy Jasper

"Antique" Jasper

Jasper is a gemstone of seemingly endless variety. It is one of the more common of the world's gemstones and may be found all over the world. Jasper's name comes from the Greek iaspis for "spotted stone."

​Jasper is a member of the chalcedony (pronounced kal-SEH-doh-nee) or microcrystalline branch of the quartz family. Another familiar member of this branch of the quartz family is agate which is usually translucent or has translucent bands whereas jasper is usually opaque.

Jasper is colored by oxides of iron and known for its deep earthy tones of red, yellow, brown and green. It also sometimes appears in shades of blue or purple. Jasper may also display bands of color, pictures, or small circular patterns. The colors and patterns are the result of the minerals present in the stone. Jaspers are often named after their patterns or for the places in which they're mined. Here a few of my favorites.

Dalmatian Jasper has a cream background with black and/or brown spots - just like the dog of the same name. It is supposed to increase patience and protect against nightmares.

​Kambaba Jasper is a combination of light and dark green, brown, and black in concentric circles and speckles. Mystics believe it soothes the nerves.

Kambaba Jasper

Ocean Jasper

Ocean Jasper, also known as orbicular jasper, has wavy and circular patterns in green, cream, beige, brown, and pink. It sometimes looks like the foam from a wave that just broke on the beach. It is said to be a very calming and soothing stone.

​Picture Jasper often looks like a landscape painting, perhaps a desert or mountain scene. It is formed from petrified mud and quartz. It is thought to be excellent for creative vision, initiative and boosting one's confidence.

Because of its versatile colors and patterns, jasper jewelry can be worn in any season and will jazz up any outfit. It's a great gemstone to have in your jewelry box.

​To add jasper jewelry to your collection, visit my website, stop in at the Prescott Art Market in the Prescott Gateway Mall, or meet me at one of these select shows.

Porcelain Jasper