Jasper is the name of a dark red variety of chalcedony. Chalcedony is the most common member of a group of quartz minerals that are cryptocrystalline (composed of very small fibers or rods). The red coloration of jasper usually indicates the presence of iron oxide.
Jasper is harder than a knife, and it can scratch glass. It takes a high polish and is used for mantels, pillars, and other fancy interior finishings. Fine grades of jasper are polished into gems. The most beautiful varieties come from Siberia, Greece, India, Turkey, and Poland.
Prehistoric people made arrowheads and tools from jasper and other related minerals. Jasper is mentioned in the Bible as a part of the breastplate of the Jewish High Priest (Exodus 39:13). Ancient Greeks and Romans believed it could heal many illnesses and draw the poison from snakebites.
