Jasper, an aggregate of microgranular quartz and/or chalcedony and other mineral phases, is an opaque, impure variety of silica. Its name comes from the Greek word iaspi meaning spotted stone. Red Jasper stands out because it contains the purest single color. And that red color is due to iron inclusions within the stone.
The patterns of jasper are formed during the process of mineral consolidation, determined by the exact flow and deposition of silica-rich sediments or volcanic ash. Jasper is often modified by other intruding impurities. As original deposits of silica materials naturally form with fissures and cracks after deposition, they are later filled by other minerals, such as iron oxide, manganese dioxide, metal oxide and sometimes organic matter. The final settling of these materials determines the specific appearance of the final substance.
Jasper is a gemstone that has been used all over the world and often revered as sacred. According to Norse legend, the magic sword of Siegfried the dragon slayer was inlaid with this gemstone. Egyptians believed the stone to be associated with Isis and was carved into amulets for the dead. There is also speculation it was actually red jasper (not ruby) that adorned the sacred breastplate of Aaron.
That said, it is a powerful healing stone offering a sense of well-being. It is believed to help balance aggressive, dynamic energy and provide protection.
