Peridot Jasper
Meaning and Properties
History
The word "jasper" is derived from the Greek word iaspi meaning "spotted stone," related to the Hebrew jashpeh and the ancient Assyrian word ashpu. Jaspers were worn by Egyptian priests in amulets covered with inscriptions from their Book of the Dead and wrapped up with mummies for protection in the afterlife. The Minoans of Crete carved jasper to make seals for the palace of Knossos.
Jasper was the 12th stone in the breastplate of the Hebrew High Priest, and is said to be the foundation stone of New Jerusalem. Some Native American tribes used jasper to dowse for water and to call rain.
Jaspers in shades of green were greatly valued in the ancient world. W.T. Fernie notes, in his book Precious Stones for Curative Wear, the words of an ancient author named Onomakristos: "the grass-green Jasper, which rejoiceth the eye of man and is looked on with pleasure by the immortals."
Metaphysical Properties
Jasper was popular in the ancient world for its medicinal and spiritual values, and has been used for centuries by cultures around the world for its unique properties. Legend has it that jasper would drive away evil spirits and protect against snake and spider bites. In the fourth century, jasper was called "the great rain bringer." Medicinal values attributed to jasper include an ability to strengthen the stomach and provide cures to gynecological issues.
In ancient times, green jaspers were believed to call rain, drive away evil spirits and protect against venomous bites or stings. Modern practitioners advocate its use for nasal issues, such as staunching nosebleeds, improving the sense of smell and relieving sinus pain.
Peridot jasper, like other green stones, is affiliated with the heart chakra. Jaspers of all kinds are also assigned to the base chakra. Peridot jasper is not a formal birthstone, but is associated with spring birthdays.
Geological Properties
Jasper is a variety of quartz that may contain up to 20 percent foreign materials or inclusions, including organic material and mineral oxides, which determine the color, pattern and appearance of the stone. Uniformly colored jasper is uncommon but not unheard of; usually jasper is multicolored, spotted or banded. This stone is opaque, even in thin slices, and takes a high polish. Different types of jasper display different lusters. Like agate, the wide selection of jaspers include a range of trade names and classifications that are used by jewelry makers and collectors.
Jasper is found all over the world including deposits in the United States, Egypt, Brazil, Australia, India, Canada, Russia, Uruguay, Madagascar and Kazakhstan.
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Proper Care of Peridot Jasper
Jaspers are a member of the quartz family. These are durable stones and can be found in a range of jewelry designs, with an equal range of exposure to dirt and wear. Remove jasper jewelry before playing sports or any other activity leading to perspiration.
Clean jasper jewelry with a soft dry cloth to preserve polish. Clean quickly if the jewelry becomes soiled, as jaspers can be porous and easily stained. Wash with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth or soft brush. Dry thoroughly.
Avoid prolonged exposure to extreme heat, as prolonged heat is used to change color in quartzes. When storing jasper, 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 jasper and other gemstones, order your copy of Walter Schumann's revised and expanded edition of Gemstones of the World.
Designing with Peridot Jasper
Peridot jasper is like rich cream with a hint of cool mint blended into it. These creamy, gleaming beads combine peridot's delicate beauty with jasper's low cost. Combine peridot jasper with other green stones (such as peridot, kambaba jasper, chrysoprase, etc.) to subtly and quietly "echo" the other greens, enhancing and complementing their color. This muted green plays well with other pastel shades (such as rose quartz and lemon chrysoprase) as well as with deeply saturated golds, blues and oranges.
View more resources featuring peridot jasper, including Design Ideas, Videos, Tutorials and more!
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**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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