Red Jasper

Gemstone: Red Jasper Birthstone Month: Jasper is associated with the birthstone month of January. Zodiac: Jasper is associated with the zodiac signs of Aquarius and Leo. Chemical Symbol: SiO2 Chemical Make-up: Jasper is a microcrystalline variety of Quartz, and a member of the Chalcedony family. It often contains organic material and iron oxides that accounts for its interesting patterns, bands, and colors. History & Lore: The name Jasper means “spotted stone”, and is ultimately derived from the Persian word 'yashp'. Jasper was a favorite gemstone of ancient times and can be traced back to Greek, Hebrew, Persian, Latin, and Assyrian literature. Red Jasper is symbolically considered to be the blood of the earth in many Native American cultures and is thought to be of the best stones available for connecting with the stabilizing energies of the earth. Jasper is a protective stone and is said to align the chakras and balance the yin and yang energies. In legend Jasper was believed to protect against evil spirits and forces, and was also believed to bring courage and relief from pain. It is also said to protect against venomous snake and spider bites. Red Jasper has long been considered a stone of fairness and justice because mystical lore claims that it can help to rectify injustices by providing insight into how to relieve unfair situations. Red Jasper was commonly used by Native American warriors as it was believed to prepare one for conflict by providing energy and courage. In addition to this, Red Jasper is believed to control one's emotions and passions well enhancing responsibility and compassion.

Availability: Red Jasper is a somewhat rare variety of Jasper, and for this reason it commands premium prices. Sources: Jasper deposits occur worldwide. Evaluation: Jasper is rated at 6.5 to 7 on the Moh's Scale of Hardness and should be protected from scratches and sharp blows. Red Jasper, also known as Imperial Red Jasper, is an opaque, impure variety of Chalcedony that has long been highly popular for use in men's jewelry. Unlike most Jasper which is heavily banded, Red Jasper is almost one pure color, ranging from an orange red to a deep brick red. The value of Red Jasper is determined by the saturation and brightness of the red color, the size of the stone, and the design in which it is formed. Common Cuts: Jasper has been used for sculptures, bowls, vases, seals, and other ornamentation purposes dating back thousands of years. As a gemstone, Red Jasper is most commonly cut into cabochons and beads. Routine Enhancements: There are no known enhancements for Red Jasper. Care & Cleaning: Jaspers are often sealed with petroleum products therefore they should not be cleaned with water because it can remove the coating / polish. It is best to clean your Jasper jewelry with a soft dry cloth. As with most gemstones, Jaspers should be kept away from prolonged exposure to extremes of heat and household chemicals that can damage the stone. Always keep your Jasper jewelry in a fabric-lined box away from other jewelry items in order to avoid damage / scratching.