Zebra Jasper

Grounding • Goal Achievement • Taking Action • Honesty • Sincerity • Determination

Appearance

An impure quartz variety, opaque, often displaying various striped patterns. Its color ranges from brown to black with white, typically with a matte to silky luster.

Rarity

Relatively common.

Grounding • Goal Achievement • Taking Action • Honesty • Sincerity • Determination

Energetic properties

Zebra Jasper is grounding and protective, helping you plant your feet firmly on the ground. It supports you in achieving your goals and turning ideas into actions. The stone fosters assertiveness, determination, perseverance, and courage. It reduces fear of conflict and enhances resilience and assertiveness. It also promotes sincerity, honesty, helpfulness, and balance in body, mind, and spirit. Zebra Jasper absorbs negative energy and offers protection against radiation and harmful influences.

Suitable for children from around 6 years old.

Formation

Jasper forms through hydrothermal processes and volcanic activity. It begins with silica-rich fluid solutions that penetrate cracks and cavities in rocks. These solutions contain dissolved silica (SiO₂) and other minerals.

As the solution cools, silica begins to crystallize around nucleation points, such as small crystals or organic material. This is known as epitaxial growth, where new crystals align with the original crystal structure.

During growth, additional minerals and pigments may be incorporated into the silica solution, resulting in the various colors and patterns seen in different types of jasper.These can include iron oxides, manganese oxides, and trace elements. The white parts are usually quartz, while the black stripes come from minerals like hematite or magnetite. The brownish tones are often caused by limonite or hematite.

The growth process is slow and can take many years, eventually resulting in dense, compact stones with varied colors, textures, and patterns.

Etymology

The name comes from the Greek word 'iaspis' or the ancient Hebrew 'yashpheh', meaning 'spotted stone'. A reference to the distinctive patterns often found in jasper. 'Zebra' refers to the distinctive pattern of this variety, resembling the striped coat of a zebra.

Care

Jasper is relatively hard and durable and doesn’t require special care. It can be cleaned under running water and gently patted dry with a soft cloth. It may also be cleansed and recharged using sage, incense or moonlight.

Origin

Well-known sources include the United States, Mexico, India, South Africa and Australia.

Availability

Zebra Jasper is relatively common and found in many parts of the world, so it is not considered rare. However, quality and size can vary, and exceptionally large or fine specimens may be more valuable.