The Many Faces of Jasper

Jasper gemstones have many different faces, striations, patterns, circles, strips, banding, plus many colors, especially earth tones.  Jasper is derived from Greek meaning "spotted stone".  The Mohs' hardness rating is 6 -7, which is very good.  Deeply banded colors come from different organic materials and iron oxides embedded in the stones. 

Jasper also comes in what looks like "animal patterns".  You have Tiger Jasper, Dalmation Jasper, Leopardskin Jasper, Snake skin Jasper, etc.  There are Jaspers with bands of white quartz mixed with green jasper.  Moukaite Jasper also spelled Mookaite is from Australia and comes in rich warm earthtones.  Ocean Jasper has orbicular patterns and in multicolors.  Picture Jasper has patterns sometimes that resemble pictures.  I have one pendant that looks like a path you are walking with leaves dangling over the path. 

There are just too many Jaspers to name and they can go my other names.  Most Jasper Gemstones are natural, only a few are actually dyed because of lack of patterns.  I believe Jasper stones are some of my most favorite, there unique designs keep my jewelry line on its toes, looking for the next gemstone I don't have.