Jasper

Jasper in an opaque form of micro crystalline quartz found in cavities of various rocks especially in lava. It is hard, measures 7 on the Mohs scale and is in the silicate group, SiO2. Oregon is fortunate to possess many varieties. Known to take a high polish, Jasper has been cherished since ancient times. Egyptians wore it. It was the first gemstone featured on the Hebrew’s high priest breastplate in the Old Testament. It is my favorite stone to fashion into cabochons.