History
Rainbow jasper contains banded colors of red, brown and tan resembling a rainbow. Large rainbow jasper boulders are used to embellish gardens, landscaping or water installations. The cliff dwelling Anasazi Native Americans of Mesa Verde in southwest Colorado formed arrowheads from rainbow jasper.The word “jasper” is derived from the Greek word iaspi meaning “spotted stone,” related to the Hebrew jashpeh and the ancient Assyrian word ashpu. Jaspers were worn by Egyptian priests in amulets covered with inscriptions from their Book of the Dead and wrapped up with mummies for protection in the afterlife. The Minoans of Crete carved seals for the palace of Knossos of jasper.
Jasper was the 12th stone in the breastplate of the Hebrew High Priest, and is said to be the foundation stone of New Jerusalem. Some Native American tribes used jasper to dowse for water and to call rain.
Metaphysical Properties
Rainbow jasper is called a “sustaining stone,” and thought to be helpful in times of emotional fatigue or stress. Used for its properties to both calm and sooth, it is believed to be beneficial in collecting one’s thoughts so as to help one feel more secure and relaxed when making decisions.
Jasper gives one the courage to speak out and have personal independence. It also protects from fears in the night. Red jasper is thought to help balance the energy in the body. All jaspers help balance the emotional energy in the body.
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