Jasper is one of the birth stones listed for the Sun Sign of Virgo. It is also the Mystical birthstone for the month of October. Corresponding Astrological Sign: Leo. It is the state rock of Massachusetts, USA.
Jasper was a favorite gem in ancient times and is referenced in Greek, Hebrew, Assyrian and Latin literature. It is an opaque and fine grained variety of Chalcedony. Jasper is found in all colors; including: red, brown, pink, yellow, green, grey/white and shades of blue and purple. Found worldwide, a wide variety of named jaspers is found in the western areas of the Unites States; California, Oregon, Idaho, Utah, Wyoming and Washington.
It often contains organic material and mineral oxides which give it interesting patterns, bands and colors. Many of these patterns resemble landscapes with mountains and valleys, thus the name "picture" is part of the name of many well know jaspers. Picture jasper is a petrified or silicated mud that dripped into gas pockets in molten lava. It became superheated and then solidified forming the unusual banded patterns which are typical of this stone.
Metaphysical:
Jasper is a stone of protection, used by Shamen. Supreme nurturer, balances and stabilizes. Jasper has been used to ensure safe astral travel, and for dowsing. Jasper heightens awareness. Helps to cleanse and eliminate negative energy.
Chakras: Root and Spleen
      Composition: A form of Chalcedony, silicon dioxide'
            Mohs-Scale Hardness: 6.5 - 7
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