What is Jasper?

This is a very important question, since many stones are referred to as Jasper while not technically fitting the physical requirements. These misnomered honorary Jaspers include gems like Kiwi Jasper, Dragons Blood Jasper, Lionskin Jasper, Unakite Jasper, or Mookaite Jasper, which are listed here for ease of access, since they are widely referred to under such names. Still, it's important to remember that this confusion arises largely because the term Jasper has historically been quite loosely applied anyway. Jasper usually refers to mostly opaque of impure Chalcedony or Chert, and it can occur as small veins, concretions, or replacements in sedimentary or metamorphic rock, but the term is also often applied to some types of igneous and sedimentary rocks on their own. The presence of Hematite, Goethite, and other materials within Jasper can strongly influence its color, and it has also been found in fossilized wood specimens that have been jasperized over time. When the growth of Jasper is interupted or split due to shifts in the Earth, the gaps are sometimes filled by Quartz, Agate, Chalcedony, Hematite, Martite, or other colors of Jasper, resulting in striking crackled patterns called brecciation.

What Color is Jasper?

What color isn't Jasper? Some popular types of Jasper include: Red Jasper, Yellow Jasper, Green Jasper, Brown Jasper, Grey Jasper, and Black Jasper. However, there are also multicolored Jaspers featuring distinctive shades and patterns, making them highly sought after by collectors. Although some are only honorary Jaspers, they have found wide popularity among crystal lovers. Ocean Jasper, Orbicular Jasper, Picture Jasper, Dalmatian Jasper aka Dalmation Jasper, Kambaba Jasper, Zebra Jasper, Bumblebee Jasper, Picasso Jasper, Fancy Jasper, Poppy Jasper, Biggs Jasper, Owyhee Jasper, Polychrome Jasper, Leopard Skin Jasper, Silver Leaf Jasper, Sesame Seed Jasper, Red Creek Jasper, Wild Horse Jasper, Maligano Jasper-- the list is extensive, with vendors and collectors applying names to allow for quick and concise recognition of the many potential patterns.

Jasper Meaning and Metaphysical Properties

Each type of Jasper stone has its own specific set of spiritual properties and metaphysical uses, so each Jasper is associated with its own magical intentions. However, Jasper as a whole is known as a gemstone for drawing in positive energy and cycling negativity away. This has led to Jasper stone being known for facilitating positive changes, personal awareness, and blessings.