An introduction to Jasper and its uses in Jewellery Making

Jasper is an opaque form of chalcedony, a variety of quartz. Although it is frequently encountered in hues of red, brown and yellow, which are the result of iron oxide minerals contained in Jasper’s structure, the stone may also be pink, blue, white or black.

Jasper’s Uses in Handmade Jewellery

                Jasper has wide uses in Handmade Jewellery predominantly because of its beautiful patterns, its abundance, and its relatively low cost. It can easily be set into Handmade Rings or be the centre piece of Handmade Bangles, as well as coming in sizes small enough to incorporate into necklaces and earrings.

Varieties

As the popularity of Jasper spread around the world, new sources were sought. Jasper has been found in nearly every colour and in all sorts of interesting patterns. The myriad types of Jasper have been given names that describe either the stone’s pattern or where it is found.

                One type of Jasper that attracts Jewellery Designers is orbicular. This variety is distinguished by a pattern of dots or circles. Some of the most famous orbicular Jasper was found near Morgan Hill, Calif. This type has striking spots of red, yellow, black and white. In recent years a multicoloured orbicular variety known as ocean jasper was discovered on the Ambolobozo Peninsula on the northwest coast of Madagascar. With its green, white, yellow and pink hues, ocean Jasper became an instant favourite.

                Picture or scenic Jasper is found around the world. When oriented properly picture jasper’s patterns can resemble desert or mountain landscapes.

                Some of the most popular designer jaspers have been found in Oregon and Idaho in the USA. Bruneau Jasper, which is found in Bruneau Canyon in southern Idaho has a dedicated following. It is characterized by shades of brown and cream colours that form pillow and cloudlike patterns. Morrisonite Jasper, which is found in the Owyhee Mountain region of Oregon is one of the most colourful types yet discovered. Its patterns are often multicoloured in shades of blue, green, orange, red, pink, lavender, brown, cream and more. Morrisonite may have pillowlike patterns or angular jagged shapes in the patterns.

                Another deposit of fine Jasper is in Zacatecas, Mexico. Known as Imperial Jasper the material is multicoloured with shades of green, pink, red and others, often set strikingly against a white background.

                Two great things going for Jasper are its abundance and affordability. Because Jasper is often found in large sizes, it invites lots of creative cutting possibilities. For example by cutting slices of the stone perfectly matched mirrored patterns can be created for handmade earrings.