Worn since Biblical times, and found in a whole host of varieties.
Jasper comes in many colours, shapes and sizes and tends to be named by the patterns that appear on its surface. These include: Blood Jasper, Print Jasper, Ribbon Jasper and Orbicular Jasper. One of the most popular and sought after is Landscape Jasper. The latter is said to display pictures or scenery from the area where it was mined; although it is indeed very captivating, this does take a lot of imagination.
Even though Jasper is a variety of Chalcedony, due to its various different names it is often seen as a family in its own right.
All types of Jasper are said to help balance the vibrations of the body. There have been many historic fables told or written about shamans and medicine men utilising the gem. Whilst some Crystal Healers believe fully in these stories, others view the gem as simply a work of art performed by Mother Nature.
Throughout Ancient Greek, Egyptian and Roman civilizations, Jasper has been used in mosaic art and ornamental designs. It is also mentioned in the Bible in Ezekiel, Exodus and Revelations. With this historical portfolio it is not surprising that so many healing properties and good luck fables are linked to this interesting gemstone.
As an opaque gemstone with a vitreous to waxy lustre, Jasper is usually cabochon cut. With carat sizes averaging double figures, this large gemstone features more in necklaces, pendants and brooches, rather than in rings and earrings.
Jasper is found in many countries the world over. Madagascar is noted for Orbicular Jasper (also know as Ocean Jasper). Kazakhstan yields red and green varieties, whereas the Urals of Russia are noted for red, brown and white Ribbon Jasper. Other countries where Jasper has been discovered include Venezuela, Egypt, Germany, Mexico, Paraguay and Australia.
