Jaspers by any name are just as sweet!

The endless variety and beauty of semiprecious stones gives me a lifetime of possibilities for creating jewelry. One of the broadest varieties is Jasper. My most recent Jasper creation is with Leopardskin Jasper, Poppy Jasper, and handmade Copper coils. And here's what I found out about Jasper, specifically, Leopardskin Jasper...

From Wikipedia, "Jaguar Stone" :
Jaguar Stones are created from a type of mineral known as Leopardskin Jasper -- an opaque tan, brown, and ochre form of impure quartz. This variety of Jasper is most often found in South America, and gets its name from the leopard-like spots covering its surface. The term Jaguar Stone has also been known to refer to stone carvings of jaguar heads created by the Ancient Maya. Not necessarily made out of Leopardskin Jasper, these Jaguar Stones can still be found in Maya temples, including Chichen Itza in modern-day Mexico...

... As one of the oldest known gemstones, Jasper, in all its varieties, has long been thought to have positive mystical properties. Natural healers recommend its use as an aid in the self-healing process. Jaguar Stones specifically have been associated with shaman travel and spiritual discovery, helping their bearers traverse between worlds in order to gain spiritual growth. Among believers, a popular practice is to display a sphere made of Jaguar Stone prominently in the home to promote the flow of positive energy. Also, wearing Jaguar Stones is said to be important to the 1st, 4th and 7th Chakras, and Jaguar Stones are often moulded into jewelry.

And I just thought they were pretty! (I don't give a whole lot of time to the other stuff, but I thought the history was interesting!)

I have two other Jasper listings, one for brown Sesame Jasper with Bronzite and brass, and one for Minty-Green Sesame Jasper. Stop by my shop to take a look!