Leopardskin Jasper
Meaning and Properties
Leopardskin Jasper History
Leopardskin jasper, also sometimes referred to as jaguar stone, is a beautiful stone of many colors with distinct spotted patterns. Jasper, in fact, gets its name from the Greek word iaspi, which means "spotted stone." This is just one of a multitude of fascinating jaspers found all over the world. In fact, jasper comes in so many unique forms, many are named for their locations. In Oregon alone, there is Rogueite from the Rogue River, Biggs jasper from Biggs, Ochoco jasper from Ochoco Lake and Owyhee jasper from the Owyhee River gorge.
Leopardskin Jasper Metaphysical Properties
Not surprisingly, leopardskin jasper's spiritual values serve as a reminder of the oneness we have with the natural world around us and is a shamanistic stone. Leopardskin jasper is also very connected to the physical body, credited with supporting and strengthening the spine and thigh muscles, giving us the strength to take action gracefully and powerfully. This gemstone takes its beauty and strength from an animal and passes its power on to us when we wear it. Leopardskin jasper is most closely associated with the root chakra and the astrological signs Gemini and Scorpio.
Leopardskin Jasper Geological Properties
Leopardskin jasper is a silicon dioxide with various inclusions that create the unique and desirable patterns. Jaspers in general are varieties of the quartz family that may contain up to 20 percent foreign materials or inclusions, including organic material and mineral oxides. This jasper has a trigonal crystal system and is considered orbicular. Leopardskin jasper is found in multiple countries, including Mexico, Brazil and some areas of Africa.
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Proper Care of Leopardskin Jasper
Though jaspers are durable stones, including leopardskin jasper, the best method for cleaning this gemstone is to wash with warm, soapy water and soft cloth or brush. To preserve polish, a clean soft, dry cloth is all that is necessary. Remove jasper jewelry before playing sports or any other activity leading to perspiration. Clean jaspers quickly if they become dirty to preserve the colors of this porous stone. It is also best to avoid prolonged exposure to extreme heat. Prolonged heat is used to change color in quartzes. When storing leopardskin jasper jewelry, wrap in a cloth or a fabric bag so it cannot scratch softer materials or be scratched by metals or harder gemstone.
To learn more about leopardskin jasper and other gemstones, order your copy of Walter Schumann's revised and expanded edition of Gemstones of the World.
Designing with Leopardskin Jasper
Tawny, supple, sinuous, graceful--all words associated with the leopard and with the way you can feel when you wear jewelry that features leopardskin jasper. Use this jasper with rich browns or greys to heighten its fascinating "animal nature." You can be certain, like the leopard itself, wherever it appears, leopardskin jasper will have everyone's immediate and undivided attention.
Shop for Leopardskin Jasper
**Please note that all metaphysical or healing properties listed are collected from various sources. This information is offered as a service and not meant to treat medical conditions. Fire Mountain Gems and Beads® does not guarantee the validity of any of these statements.
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