Bruneau Jasper

Gemstone:

Bruneau Jasper (a.k.a Bruno Canyon Jasper)

Birthstone Month:

Jasper is the gemstone associated with the birthstone month of January.

Zodiac:

Jasper is associated with the zodiac signs of Aquarius and Leo.

Chemical Symbol:

SiO2

Chemical Make-up:

Jasper is a silicon dioxide microcrystalline variety of Quartz, and a member of the Chalcedony family. Jasper often contains organic material and iron oxides, which account for its interesting patterns, bands, and colors.

History & Lore:

Bruneau Jasper is named according to the location in which it is mined in Bruneau (Bruno) Canyon, Idaho.

Jasper was a favorite gemstone in ancient times and is referenced in Greek, Hebrew, Persian, Latin, and Assyrian literature.

Jasper is a protective stone and is said to align the chakras and balance the yin and yang energies. In legend, Jasper was believed to protect against evil spirits and forces. It was also believed that Jasper could bring courage and relief from pain. In addition to this, Jasper is also said to protect against venomous snake and spider bites, and has been used to help pregnant women whilst giving birth, increase milk supply during nursing, and to slow down a heavy menstrual flow.

Availability:

Bruneau Jasper is a highly-prized and sought-after Jasper variety. Unfortunately it is becoming increasingly rare, which will inevitably cause prices to rise.

Sources:

The sole source of Bruneau Jasper can be found in Bruneau (Bruno) Canyon in Owyhee county, south-central Idaho.

Evaluation:

Bruneau Jasper is rated at 6.5 to 7 on Moh's Scale of Hardness. This opaque stone varies in color and displays combinations of browns, tans and ivory, in both spherical and oval patterns. There may also be a visible traces of green, black, or gray in the patterns. Jasper's value is most influenced by color saturation, the beauty of the orbicular patterns, and the beauty of the naturally occurring designs.

Common Cuts:

Bruneau Jasper is most commonly fashioned into cabochons and beads.

Routine Enhancements:

There are no known enhancements for Bruneau Jasper.

Care & Cleaning:

Jaspers are often sealed with petroleum products and should therefore not be cleaned with water because this can remove the seal. It is best to clean your Jasper jewelry with a soft dry cloth. As with most gemstones, Jaspers should be kept away from exposure to extremes of heat and household chemicals that can damage the stone. Always keep your Jasper jewelry in a fabric-lined box away from other jewelry items in order to avoid scratching.