Jasper: history, healing properties and lithotherapy

The history, benefits and virtues of jasper

Jasper properties
- The varieties of jasper
History, legends and beliefs on jasper
Healing properties and benefits of jasper
Jasper jewelry samples

Jasper properties

Jasper, history and healing stone properties — "Sompaïna" pendant with imperial jasper

Jasper, of sedimentary or sometimes volcanic origin, is primarily composed of Silica, offering an abundance of hues and textures.

As an impure variety of microcrystalline quartz, its interwoven crystals impart a distinctive opacity, often accompanied by colorful streaks indicative of the compaction of various materials. Specimens come in a multitude of types, from captivating orbicules to vibrant bloodstones and prases, to enigmatic flints and plasmas.

The etymology of "jasper," stemming from the Greek "Iaspis" and the Hebrew "Yashepheh," still raises questions, with some suggesting a connection to agate. The word "Yashepheh" originates from one of the stones on Aaron’s breastplate, identified as jasper. This stone is purportedly a rare and highly sought-after green jasper. However, Pliny the Elder describes this stone as green and often transparent, whereas we consider jasper to be opaque. Therefore, there may be an error in the identification of this stone.

The varieties of jasper

Indeed, there is a wide range of jaspers, often named after their deposit, region of origin, eminent discoverer, or distinctive chromatic features and patterns. Each of these jaspers bears a unique identity, reflecting the geological wonders of our planet. Here are a few examples:

Basanite or Lydite
Fossilized wood
Cacholong
Chrysoprase
Carnelian
Breschite jasper
Bruneau jasper
Bumblebee jasper
Dalmation jasper or Lamparci
Earth jasper
Egyptian jasper

Kambaba jasper
Leopard jasper
Mookaite jasper
Ocean jasper
Orbicular jasper
Plasma jasper
Bloody jasper
Zone jasper
Lydian
Sardonyx
Unakite

History, legends and beliefs on jasper

history and healing properties of jasper — "Autumn artichoke" ring with autumn jasper

Jasper, with its multifaceted nature, has been a prized material throughout the ages. Used for ornamental purposes, it has adorned fireplaces, tables, pavements, sculptures, and mosaics, adding an elegant touch to any object it embellished. Its versatility as a gemstone has made it highly valued in the world of jewelry.
However, over time, many materials have been mistakenly labeled as jasper, underscoring the need for precise identification. Therefore, we will remain somewhat superficial in this general description, giving more credit to descriptions associated with each specific variety of jasper that you will find on the website.

The Egyptians particularly exploited the qualities of jasper, carving amulets in the shape of red scarabs, symbols of eternal life, as well as talismans in the form of serpent heads made of red jasper or carnelian, believed to protect against snake bites. Egyptian sculptures in jasper, such as the famous bust of Queen Tiyi carved from yellow jasper, illustrate the significance and mastery of this material in the art and culture of ancient Egypt.

The Greeks, by associating it with Gaia, the mother goddess, attributed to jasper a profound symbolism of fertility and connection to the Earth. They also offered this stone to Callisto, the lunar goddess, in recognition of her nocturnal majesty.

The Romans, on the other hand, dedicated it to Bona Dea, goddess of fertility and chastity, attributing to jasper protective virtues for health and family.

In Norse sagas, jasper appears in epic tales such as that of Siegfried, where the hilt of his sword, inlaid with red jasper, symbolized the blood of the dragon he had slain, thus bearing witness to his legendary bravery.

Biblical references bestow a sacred aura upon jasper. In the Old Testament, it is mentioned as one of the twelve stones adorning the breastplate of Aaron, although precise identification remains subject to debate.

In Christian tradition, jasper is associated with the apostle Peter, symbolizing the solid foundation upon which the Christian Church is built.
The Book of Revelation by Saint John even describes the throne of Christ resting on a base of jasper, symbolizing eternity, renewal, and divine revelation.

jasper, history and healing properties — "In the heart of the ocean" pendant with ocean jasper

Jasper has also played a significant role in Native American cultures, where certain varieties were revered as protective amulets, warding off nocturnal dangers and fostering the blessings of water and rain, essential for the life and fertility of the land.

As early as the Iron Age, the Japanese esteemed jasper, using it to fashion magatama, pendants with evocative shapes of claws, commas, or the number nine, imbued with a sacred aura. Considered relics containing the souls of great warriors, these ornaments were worn by priests and nobles as a distinctive mark of their elevated social status.

In China, jasper held great importance as well, with certain imperial seals carved from this precious stone, symbolizing the power and legitimacy of the emperor.

Mines: you can find it frequently but each mine is unique. India, México, USA, Brazil, Madagascar and Russia.

Healing properties and benefits of jasper

Jasper is renowned for its therapeutic properties:

In cases of internal organ deterioration such as liver, kidneys, bladder, lungs, and stomach issues, it may provide valuable support.
In addition to its calming effects on the nerves, it is considered an ally against loss of smell, thus promoting mental and emotional tranquility.
As a regulator of mineral assimilation in the body, jasper contributes to balancing levels of iron, sulfur, zinc, and manganese, essential for proper bodily function.
Its anti-inflammatory properties make jasper a natural remedy for alleviating various ailments such as bronchitis, headaches, rheumatism, colds, flu, and even multiple sclerosis.
By improving blood circulation, jasper can help stop nosebleeds and reduce hemorrhoid symptoms, offering welcome relief and an enhanced quality of life.

These benefits traditionally associated with jasper make it a sought-after stone in lithotherapy for physical and emotional well-being.

⚠ Please note that all healing properties presented for gemstones are gathered from various sources. This information is provided as a service and is not intended to treat medical conditions. It is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for serious medical issues and not to rely solely on gemstones as a treatment.

Stone list starting with the letter: