Description
Jasper is an opaque and finely crystalline variety of quartz. Its chemical composition is identical to that of agate, flint, and chert. Its colors are variable, from yellow through red and reddish brown to green. Jasper stones are cut and polished for jewelry. The name jasper derives from a Semitic language via Latin and Greek (íaspis) and means "spotted or speckled stone." The main deposits of jasper are India (Dekkan Plateau) and Mexico (yellow), Germany (red), and Africa, Australia, Brazil, Egypt, France, and the United States (other colors). Jasper has been used as a gemstone since ancient times. It was made into seal stones, small cut stones, and trinkets. Jasper was believed to have magical powers. In ancient times, it was called the mother of all stones. Today, it is used in cabochons, tableware, and handicrafts. Imitations are made from glass. The Egyptians and Greeks used jasper to enhance sexuality and achieve rapid pregnancy. Among Native Americans, yellow jasper served as a rainstone. Jasper is attributed with several medicinal properties, such as stress reduction, weight loss, stomach complaints, and liver problems. According to various literary sources, jasper is associated with the zodiac signs Aries, Virgo, Cancer, and Scorpio. The Christian scripture Revelation 4:2-3 states: (2) "I was in the midst of thee, and behold, there was a throne in heaven, and one sat on it. (3) The one sitting had the appearance of a jasper and a sardine stone, and around the throne was a rainbow in appearance like an emerald.".
