Known for its deep red hue, red jasper has been a stone praised and revered by many cultures across the centuries. This article talks about the meaning, history and the uses of Red Jasper.
The etymology of the word jasper can be traced back to the Old French word jaspre, to Latin iaspidem, and Greek iaspis for jasper. It is believed that the Greek word is actually a loan word from Hebrew yashpeh or Akkadian yashupu. Jasper simply denoted any bright-colored chalcedony other than carnelian.
Red Jasper Highlights
- It is believed that red jasper was most likely the first stone of High Priest Aaron’s breastplate instead of ruby.
- The ancient Egyptians associated the stone with the blood of Isis, a deity highly worshiped in the first millennium BCE.
- Jasper appears in the Old Norse legend of Siegfried the dragon Slayer whose sword had a jasper stone placed in its hilt.
- The native Americans believed that red jasper was the blood of Mother Earth, and would use it for facilitate rebirth and aid them in calling of the rain.
- Red jasper is an opaque chalcedony that has high levels of iron, hence its blood red hue.
- Jasper is found worldwide, but some of the main deposits can be found in the western United States, Russia, India, and Egypt.
- Red jasper is part of the quartz family, which make up about 12% of the Earth’s crust.
- The stone is thought to contain spiritual and physical protective properties.
- Red Jasper is ideal for activating the Root Chakra.
- It is useful in keeping one grounded when attempting to awaken the kundalini spirit that resides at the base of the spine.
The Formation and Mining of Red Jasper
Formation of Red Jasper
Jasper in general is typically found in cracks and veins in volcanic rocks along with other chalcedony and agate. It forms from an aqueous solution much like other stones in quartz family. However, red jasper has higher concentrations of iron, hence its reddish hue.
Though part of chalcedony family, what makes Jasper different is its opacity. Typical microcrystalline quartz in its pure form is semitransparent. What can make it less transparent is the presence of impurities.
Mining of Red Jasper
Quartz is one of the most abundant individual minerals making up 12% of the Earth’s crust. As a result, jasper can be found worldwide, and there are many different forms of jasper. It can be found in Western United States in Wyoming, California, Oregon, Idaho, Utah, and Washington. It can also be found in India, Russia, and in Egypt.
Red Jasper Throughout History
Old Norse Legend of Siegfried
Red jasper was revered by ancient civilizations who believed that it provided spiritual and physical protection. It was often associated with healing as well as inspiring courage, which made it a favored gemstone for warriors. In the Old Norse Legend of Siegfried, the dragon slayer, his magical sword, known as Balmung, Nothung, and Gramr in Old Norse, had a jasper stone in its hilt.
Egypt in First Millennium BCE
The ancient Egyptians often find themselves in the conversation when discussing the history of gemstones. They too revered the red jasper for they associated it with the blood of mother Isis, one of the most worshiped deities in the first millennium BCE. The gemstone was often carved into amulets that were placed on the necks of the deceased.
When determining what stones would have been used during the time of Exodus, it is believed that instead of Ruby, the first stone put into High Priest Aaron’s Breastplate, it was most likely red jasper.
The Native Americans
Its nickname, the Blood of Mother Earth, comes from the Native Americans. They believed that red jasper was representative of the Earth Mother’s blood, and was used to facilitate rebirth and the manifestation of new ideas. Moreover, it was used as a way to increase one’s sensitivity with the Earth, particularly when trying to call upon the rain.
Uses and Benefits of Red Jasper
Anxiety Relief
Red jasper is known to help ease stress and keep one grounded to the Earth. For anxiety relief, it is a great rubbing stone that can help calm one’s nerves. As such, it can help an individual get back to a normal balance with their body.
Perfect for Meditation
Due to its ability to keep one grounded, it’s a perfect choice for meditation. It allows the user to clear their mind, and focus all of their energy on the prayers and thoughts. It is particularly helpful during long ceremonies or mediation sessions, increasing the endurance of the user to propel them through the entire exercise.
Conveyor of Passion and Love
The stone is also a strong conveyor of passion and love. It promotes control and a peaceful center to stave of sexual aggressiveness. In this sense, it can help one overcome jealously related to love. Moreover, it helps promote sexual compatibility between individuals.
Activating the 1st Chakra
Red jasper is an ideal choice for activating the Root (1st) Chakra. It keeps one grounded during spiritual awakenings and travel. When placed at the base, it stimulates the transfer of energy up the spine. It helps stave off the feelings of lethargy and low energy that one feels when your body is physical out of balance.
Awakening the Kundalini
Be prepared for the stone to also facilitate and stimulate the raising of the kundalini serpent which rests at the base of the spine. The practice of awakening the kundalini spirit can create an immense sensation energy and sexuality. As this energy rises, it will allow you to experience a spiritual enlightenment, though with red jasper, you don’t have to worry about losing your grounding as you complete this practice.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for entertainment and reference purposes only. It is based on centuries of folklore, most of which came about before the age of modern medicine. It is not meant as actual medical information. For advice about any of the illnesses listed, please visit a qualified physician.
