Jasper, Zebra Meaning and Properties
Zebra Jasper History
Like other jaspers, Zebra jasper is found all over the world and has been used since antiquity. But, unlike much jasper which is spotted, this variety of jasper marble is striped. Jasper, an opaque chalcedony, comes in a wide variety of colors, each with unique patterning. Zebra jasper is the variety of jasper known for its black and white stripes. The term "jasper" itself comes from the Greek work iaspi, which means "spotted stone." Jasper in general has been a gemstone used all over the world, worn by ancient Egyptian priests and carved as seals by the Minoans. While jasper is more widely available today, jasper was once considered a valuable stone.
What are the Metaphysical Properties of Zebra Jasper?
Zebra jasper meaning is linked to moving out of apathy into action. It is said to help us avoid over-thinking and encourage us to just enjoy the experience of living. Zebra jasper's striking colors intensify that message. Like the swift, wild animal for which it's named, it shows us how to live. It says: Get out of your head! Get into your body. Let the zest for life flow through you. On top of this, zebra jasper meaning is linked to the root chakra. This grounds us, helping us find enjoyment in the beauty of our world.
What is Zebra Jasper Made From?
Jasper can be found all over the world, but zebra jasper has been specifically mined in Africa, Russia and India. This stone has a trigonal crystal structure, is opaque and takes a high polish well.
- Mineral Information: Silicate, chalcedony, quartz group
- Chemical Composition: SiO2
- Color: Deep green/black; white banding
- Hardness: 6-1/2 to 7 (Mohs)
- Specific Gravity: 2.58 – 2.91
- Refractive Index: 1.54 (Approximately)
How Do You Clean Zebra Jasper?
The best method for cleaning zebra jasper is the tried and true warm soapy water with a soft cloth or bristle brush. Be sure to dry the stone and all jewelry settings thoroughly before storing or wearing. It is a good idea to avoid prolonged exposure to high heat as this can sometimes create color changes in varieties of quartz.
Zebra Jasper FAQ
Q: What gives zebra jasper its distinctive striped or banded patterns?
A: The white stripes are usually quartz, and the dark bands are usually by iron oxides.
Q: How can you tell if zebra jasper beads are natural?
A: Zebra jasper is usually polished to better let the black and white stripes take center stage. Brightly colored stones labeled “zebra jasper” are usually not genuine zebra jasper. Look for dye pooling in micro-cracks in the gemstone surface as a clue. Black and white stones labeled zebra “jasper”—with “jasper” in quotation marks—are onyx marble.
Q: Is zebra jasper suitable for rings, or better for necklace and bracelets?
A: With a Mohs hardness of 6-1/2 to 7, zebra jasper is a hard enough stone be used for rings, necklaces, bracelets and more.
Designing with Zebra Jasper
Beautifully banded in irregular deep green, brown or black and white, zebra jasper beads blend exquisitely with solid green, black or white stones. Try mixing the exotic with the ancient by stringing zebra jasper beads with antiqued brass or antiqued silver beads and components. Team them up with black horn hairpipe beads for the beauty and thrilling intrigue of African-inspired designs.
Shop for Zebra 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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