Jasper is an opaque chalcedony that comes in a wide variety of colors. Red Jasper is an opaque, microcrystalline variety of quartz. Unlike most jasper, which is a heavily banded variety of chalcedony, brick red jasper is almost one pure color.

Red Jasper History

The term “jasper” itself comes from the Greek work iaspi, meaning “spotted stone.”

Jasper is a gemstone that has been used all over the world and often revered as sacred.

According to Norse legend, the magic sword of Siegfried the dragon slayer was inlaid with this gemstone.

Egyptians believed the stone to be associated with Isis and was carved into amulets for the dead. There is also speculation it was actually red jasper (not ruby) that adorned the sacred breastplate of Aaron.

Red Jasper Metaphysical Properties

Jasper, in all its forms, is considered a powerful healing stone. Jasper is regarded as a gemstone that gives a sense of well-being, intensifying that feeling.

Red jasper has been used as a stone of protection for thousands of years.

It is believed this jasper has an ability to create and help balance aggressive, dynamic energy.

Red jasper was used to staunch wounds and increase fertility.

Red Jasper Geological Properties

Jasper gemstones are found all over the world in countries such as India, Russia, Indonesia, Madagascar, Australia, Brazil and the United States.

Jasper in general is an impure silicon dioxide with unique patterns formed during mineral consolidation that creates the various types of this stone. 

Proper Care of Red Jasper

Though jaspers are hardy, durable stones, the best method for cleaning red jasper is to simply use warm soapy water with a soft cloth or brush. 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.

To learn more about jasper and other gemstones, order your copy of Walter Schumann’s revised and expanded edition of Gemstones of the World: Newly Revised Fifth Edition.

Designing with Red Jasper

Red jasper has long been popular for men’s jewelry, but women love it, too. For a dazzling duo, mix red jasper beads with round silver beads spaced between them.

Create complementary colored jewelry by combining the dark brick red of this jasper with saturated green gemstones such as emerald. If that sounds too Christmasy for you, the red hue pairs exceptionally well with its analogous colors of purple and blue, inviting in the use of gemstones such as amethyst and lapis lazuli.