Jasper

The name "Jasper" is derived from Greek literature, and translates to "spotted stone." It is grouped with the Chalcedony family but is often separated into its own group within the quartz family. Jasper is opaque in appearance and comes in fiery patterns and earthy hues. With a hardness of 6.5-7, Jasper is superb for carving. Jasper ranges in form from cabochons, tumbled pieces, spheres, disks, hearts, free form pieces, palm stones, rough pieces, to slices.

Jasper is linked to the base, solar plexus, and sacral chakra. The stone promotes security, self-discipline, creativity, and sensuality. It is a mineral of protection, acting as a guard against instability, and helping one remain grounded. Different varieties of Jasper have various metaphysical properties.