Picasso Jasper

Meaning and Properties

History


Named after the painter Pablo Picasso, this unique gemstone is found in the state of Utah in the United States. The gemstone has an abstract, modernistic look with its wide streaks of black, grey and occasional red.

Metaphysical Properties


There is a lot going on in Picasso jasper with all its colors and patterns, so it's no surprise this is a versatile stone with plenty of metaphysical properties. Picasso jasper is said to make for an excellent meditation stone. Some people value Picasso jasper for its ability to renew lost friendships or to help guide during relationship transitions. This stone is said to promote inner clarity and interpretation of one's own thoughts. Picasso jasper is most closely associated with the base, sacral and solar plexus chakras. Also a creative stone, Picasso jasper is believed to help break through blocks and aid an individual in manifesting their imaginative ideas.


Geological Properties


Picasso jasper, also sometimes called Picasso stone, is actually a metamorphic limestone and not a jasper at all. The beautiful layers and colors of Picasso jasper results from heat and pressure within the Earth. The lined patterns in this stone are formed by iron oxides.

Mineral Information Silicate, chalcedony, quartz group
Chemical Composition SiO2
Color Grey or black with streaks of grey, black and red
Hardness 6-1/2 to 7 (Mohs)
Specific Gravity 2.58 - 2.91
Refractive Index 1.54 (Approximately)

Proper Care of Picasso Jasper


The best method for cleaning Picasso jasper is to wash with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth or brush. Remove this gemstone before playing sports or any other activity leading to perspiration. It is also best to avoid prolonged exposure to extreme heat. When storing Picasso jasper jewelry, wrap in a cloth or a fabric bag so it cannot scratch softer materials or be scratched by metals or harder gemstones.


To learn more about jasper and other gemstones, order your copy of Walter Schumann's revised and expanded edition of Gemstones of the World.



Designing with Picasso Jasper


Part of designers' fascination with Picasso jasper is the tension: the boldness of black, the passive quietness of grey and the exciting energy of red all swept together. String these beads in multiple strands with other black or grey-toned beads for a look that's formal and distinctive. Highlight colors within the stone that you find attractive by incorporating similarly colored stones such as red jasper or carnelian.


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