Semi precious gems occur naturally throughout the world and have
been used extensively in the production of handmade jewellery by many
different cultures throughout history. Inevitably each individual stone
has become associated with its own unique set of powers and beliefs that
have played a huge significance in the lives of these peoples. This
article summarises the properties, both physical and mystical, thought
to be associated with Jasper. Knowledge of these attributes should
benefit anyone who is considering giving an item of jasper jewellery to a
loved one to-day.
Colour and Form: Jasper is one of the oldest known gemstones and is mentioned in the Bible, Revelations 21:11, - 'It shone with the glory of God, and its brilliance was like that of a very precious jewel, like jasper, clear as crystal.' The ancient Egyptians used jasper amulets engraved with spells when they entombed their Pharaohs and the Native Americans used it to bring rain. Jasper is found throughout the world with significant deposits occurring in Australia, Brazil, Canada, Egypt, India, Russia, Uruguay and the United States, to mention just a few. The name Jasper is from the Greek meaning 'spotted or speckled stone' and is a reflection of the artistic and diverse range of forms and colors that result from its formation. The presence of impurities and organic material often result in interesting bands, spots and patterns many of which are responsible for such names as Leopard Skin, Rainforest, Flamingo, Flower and Picasso jasper. Whatever the type, all jasper is composed mostly of silica and is therefore classified as a chalcedony or type of quartz. It is frequently opaque and is usually an earthly color such as red, brown, green, yellow or orange. As such it is a popular choice for men's jewellery.
Birthstone Associations: Throughout the course of history Jasper has been identified as the main birthstone in the following collections;
Healing Beliefs: Jasper is thought to drive away evil spirits and protect against pain. Red jasper is associated with blood and the element Fire. It has been used to promote good luck to mother and child during childbirth. Jasper is believed to strengthen the liver, gall bladder and bladder and to be associated with the stomach and pancreas. Of probably less importance to most of us is the belief that jasper is thought to protect against snake and spider bites and benefits our toenails!
Colour and Form: Jasper is one of the oldest known gemstones and is mentioned in the Bible, Revelations 21:11, - 'It shone with the glory of God, and its brilliance was like that of a very precious jewel, like jasper, clear as crystal.' The ancient Egyptians used jasper amulets engraved with spells when they entombed their Pharaohs and the Native Americans used it to bring rain. Jasper is found throughout the world with significant deposits occurring in Australia, Brazil, Canada, Egypt, India, Russia, Uruguay and the United States, to mention just a few. The name Jasper is from the Greek meaning 'spotted or speckled stone' and is a reflection of the artistic and diverse range of forms and colors that result from its formation. The presence of impurities and organic material often result in interesting bands, spots and patterns many of which are responsible for such names as Leopard Skin, Rainforest, Flamingo, Flower and Picasso jasper. Whatever the type, all jasper is composed mostly of silica and is therefore classified as a chalcedony or type of quartz. It is frequently opaque and is usually an earthly color such as red, brown, green, yellow or orange. As such it is a popular choice for men's jewellery.
Birthstone Associations: Throughout the course of history Jasper has been identified as the main birthstone in the following collections;
- Star Sign Virgo
- Traditional March
- Planetary Aries
- Mystical October
- Talismanic Aquarius
Healing Beliefs: Jasper is thought to drive away evil spirits and protect against pain. Red jasper is associated with blood and the element Fire. It has been used to promote good luck to mother and child during childbirth. Jasper is believed to strengthen the liver, gall bladder and bladder and to be associated with the stomach and pancreas. Of probably less importance to most of us is the belief that jasper is thought to protect against snake and spider bites and benefits our toenails!
Simon J Waters describes the cultural importance of a variety of
semi precious gemstones and provides guidance when selecting handmade
jewellery gifts with real meaning. Sign up for our newsletter and
receive details of special offers at http://www.crystalcombinations.co.uk
Article Source:
http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Simon_J_Waters
No comments:
Post a Comment