Jasper is one of those gemstones that everyone should know about. That being said, jasper stones come in a wide variety of colours and intricate patterns, meaning you might even have come across one without even realising it! Not only is it beautiful to look at, but it can also be a powerful aid in times of stress.
We’ve highlighted some of jasper’s properties so that next time, you’ll be able to recognise it when you see it.
What is jasper stone?
A jasper stone is a variety of chalcedony, which is a cryptocrystalline form of silica. Its chemical formula is SiO2 and it has a hexagonal crystal system.
What does a jasper stone look like?
Jasper is a smooth, opaque and impure gemstone. Although it is most commonly associated with the colour red, it comes in a variety of colours. A safer bet for how to identify it is to look for a stone with a shiny surface and a speckled pattern underneath.
What colour is jasper stone?
Jasper is almost always multicoloured, with a unique and consistent pattern habit. The colour palette is usually along the earth colour spectrum, with commons colours being red, brown, yellow or green. On the odd occasion, you’ll find a blue jasper stone which is a real treat. Its name comes from the Latin and Old French words for spotted or speckled stone.
Where does jasper come from?
Jasper is most commonly found in India, Russia, Egypt, Madagascar, Australia, as well as in many countries in South and North America but now it can be found all over the world.
What is jasper stone used for?
Jasper is a semiprecious stone most commonly used in jewellery. It’s cut into beads and pendants and is also used for carving cameos too. Jasper has powerful spiritual uses, and people often wear specific types of jasper based on what they’re going through at a particular time of their lives.
What is the spiritual meaning of jasper?
Out of all the gemstones, jasper is the best for stress. It is known as the “supreme nurturer” and it said to help achieve a state of calm and zen. It protects your energy by absorbing all the negativity, so it’s a great one to have on hand when going through a hard time.
Jasper is said to draw out the truth from within and helps you to see things clearly and be honest with yourself. For the green warriors out there, it also helps to clear out spaces for environmental pollution and radiation.
Colours & Types of Jasper
Red Jasper
Red jasper is deep in colour and has a strong connection to the earth. It is a very grounding stone, and symbolises strength and stamina, both emotionally and physically. It’s a great stone to have around when you’re having to deal with challenges to your health and well being.
See our List of Red Gemstones >>
Green Jasper
As we mentioned before, jasper is the bringer of calm, and green jasper in particular is ideal for anyone experiencing high levels of anxiety. Green jasper absorbs all the negative energy and is a good for anyone having trouble with nightmares. Set a jasper gem beside your bed for relief from paranoia and terrors.
See our List of Green Gemstones >>
Yellow Jasper
A yellow jasper can range from bright yellow to dark mustard in colour and is one of the most centering of the different variations. It represents the solar plexus chakra, which is the centre of the body. It is known for its support of intellectual clarity, and has been a favourite of poets, writers and big thinkers across centuries.
See our List of Yellow Gemstones >>
Blue Jasper
If you’re looking to take on a new opportunity and need a bit of a confidence boost, blue jasper is the one for you. It helps to motivate and build strength in your convictions, so having a jasper crystal of this kind when you’re starting a new job, or moving to a new city, can really help give you the power you need to go out and back yourself.
See our List of Blue Gemstones >>
Brecciated Jasper
Brecciated Jasper is one of the most dramatic looking of the jasper stones. It is a mixture of creamy red and brown and is also the most opaque. It is often veined with a deep grey pattern that can have a really striking effect when you look up close. Brecciated jasper is used to focus scattered thoughts and to make sense of a complicated situation.
Zebra Jasper
Named for its black and white stripes, the zebra jasper rock is dazzling in its contrast. When looking at the zebra jasper meaning, we find that it represents the balance between masculine and feminine. If you’re looking to restore some balance to your life, in whatever form that may take, keep a zebra jasper stone in your pocket as you go about your daily life.
Picasso Jasper
Based on its expressive name, I’m sure you can guess what the Picasso Jasper might look like. It’s dark lines and shiny grey surface really do resemble a world class masterpiece.
While it still has some of the outward characteristics of jasper, Picasso Jasper is actually a misnomer, since it is not jasper at all. It is actually a metamorphic limestone with lined patterns that are formed by iron oxide.
Picasso Jasper is a very social stone, so if you’re having trouble with friendships, or would like a little extra help bringing positive influence into your life, this is a great bet.
Fancy Jasper
Fancy jasper is like the fairy godmother of the jasper group. It lightens mood and increases feelings of joy by absorbing frustration, anger and guilt. They usually present in earthy greens, reds and browns and its protective nature makes it an easy choice for transition periods.
Leopard Jasper
Leopard jasper, sometimes known as jaguar stone, is named for its distinct spots of stunning colour. No two stones are the same and each tell a unique pattern story. This jasper crystal is loved for its detoxifying properties and is a favourite for starting a new year off on the right foot.
Whether you’re looking for something pretty to hang around your neck or wouldn’t mind a little help in the grounding department, a jasper gemstone is a pretty and powerful addition to any jewellery box.