Red Creek Jasper
Meaning and Properties
History
Red creek jasper, also called Cherry Creek jasper, is a colorful jasper that was discovered in Mainland China in 2010. The miners were looking for turquoise when they found this lovely red, green, yellow, blue-gray and black stone instead. Like turquoise, red creek jasper must be stabilized to be cut and polished.
Though red creek jasper has only been on the market a short time, it has become immensely popular. This stunning jasper is mined in China and is named for the creek that flows through the area where it was first found.
Red creek jasper combines softly muted shades of mustard yellow, olive green, and burnt red in patterns that resemble a breathtaking sunset. Red creek jasper beads exhibit gorgeous combinations of tan, red and sage greens. It has amazing brecciated patterns that resemble an abstract landscape painting.
Metaphysical Properties
Red creek jasper is believed by many to bring balance and relaxation, and like all jaspers, is a stone of protection and grounding. The metaphysical properties of this stone include relaxation, happiness and tranquility, and it is believed to promote compassion, protection and self-discipline.
Red creek jasper is beneficial for electromagnetic and environmental pollution, radiation, stress, prolonged illness or hospitalization, circulation and balancing the mineral content of the body.
Known as the supreme nurturer, jasper provides support in times of stress or worry. It is an excellent stone for quick thinking, promoting organizational abilities and stimulating imagination for transforming ideas into action.
Geological Properties
Jasper is a member of the chalcedony family. Chalcedony (kal SED' nee) is any form of microcrystalline quartz where the crystals are too small to be seen without high magnification. Jasper usually refers to an opaque stone with a solid color or an irregular display of colors caused by various mineral impurities. The name is derived from the Greek word that means "spotted stone." The common red color is due to iron inclusions.
Most jaspers get their name from either their location or their appearance. Red creek jasper and Cherry Creek jasper are both names used after its location in China. It is found in the Cherry Creek Mine and there is a nearby creek named Red Creek.
The primary source of this stone is China with noted deposits in South Africa and the USA (Utah).
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Proper Care of Red Creek Jasper
Though jaspers are hardy, durable stones, the best method for cleaning red creek jasper is to simply use warm soapy water with a soft cloth. Be sure to dry the stone and all jewelry settings thoroughly before storing or wearing.
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. No ultrasound or steam cleaning on these stones as they will shatter.
To learn more about Red Creek Jasper and other gemstones, order your copy of Walter Schumann's revised and expanded edition of Gemstones of the World.
Designing with Red Creek Jasper
Red creek jasper makes lovely beads that take a good polish. This stone offers the perfect autumn/fall color combination for jewelry. Mix with similar colored gemstones beads for a natural display or go for a different look altogether and combine with crystal beads for a brilliant contrast. This stone looks beautiful wire-wrapped in copper-colored wire and makes spectacular pendants for necklaces and earrings.
View more resources featuring red creek 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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