Gemstone Spotlight - ocean jasper

"Spirit of the Ocean"

Gemstone Spotlight ~ ocean jasper

This post is the first in a series of "gemstone spotlights", in which I will choose a gemstone and provide some information on it.  Then I'll show you examples of how I've used that gemstone in my designs.  

People often want to know what stones are used in the jewelry they admire.  Some people even use gemstones for their suggested healing powers.  I don't really get into all of that, instead choosing stones purely for their beauty or cut.  

I discovered ocean jasper soon after I started designing and making jewelry.  Immediately it became one of my favorite stones to use.  I love the versatility of its varied earth tones.  Also called "orbicular jasper" due to the orbicular patterns found on these stones, it only can be found on the coast of Madagascar.  Ocean jasper is a colorful stone in shades of brown, rust, blue, tan, green, black, cream, camel, and grey.  

Close up of ocean jasper orbicular patterns (above)
and color variations (below)

I hope you learned a little today from this highlight on ocean jasper.  Look for more gemstone spotlights coming up!