What on Earth Is Leopardskin Jasper?

Leopardskin jasper is a spotted, banded or orbicular jasper (a silicon dioxide) with red, pink, brown and cream tones and a pattern reminiscent of a leopard's skin. The pattern comes from its inclusions, a mix of mineral oxides and organic material, and it is a popular stone for beads, cabochons and tumbled stones.

The Physical Properties of Leopardskin Jasper

Belonging to the jasper family, it has a glassy lustre and a Mohs hardness rating of 6.5 to 7. It is a tough and durable stone often cut and polished into beads, cabochons, pendants, and tumbled stones.

Leopardskin jasper is a highly porous stone. To preserve its polish, clean it as often as possible with warm soapy water and a soft dry cloth. Keep it from prolonged exposure to heat to prevent discolouration.

The History of Leopardskin Jasper

The name jasper comes from the Greek word iaspi which means spotted stone. Jasper is known as one of the oldest stones in the world. Jasper also appears in the Bible among the precious stones.

Jasper comes in many rare forms. It has different names based on where it's found: there's Owyhee jasper found in the Owyhee Mountains, Rogueite from the Rogue River, and Ochoco Jasper found in Ochoco Lake.

The Lore of Leopardskin Jasper

Ancient civilizations attributed many protective meanings to jasper. Legends have it that wearing jasper from the point of childhood will protect a person from ghosts and drowning incidents.

It is also believed that girding their body with the stone protects against accidents and promotes the fulfillment of wishes. Leopardskin jasper is said to be a protective stone against wild animals and creatures.

According to German and Viking legends, the hilt or handle of Siegfried the dragon slayer's sword was inlaid with red jasper. This was to instill courage in him. The Native North American tribes called red jasper the blood of Mother Earth. Ancient Egyptians believed that the stone was the fertilizing blood of Mother Isis.

All jaspers were used for carving texts on sacred amulets. Then these amulets were placed on the bodies of the dead to facilitate a safe passage into the afterlife.

The Metaphysical Properties of Leopardskin Jasper

In crystal lore, leopardskin jasper is a stone of strength and resilience, associated with stamina and drive. It is also traditionally linked with letting go of guilt and resentment and with self-confidence. These are symbolic associations, not effects on the body or mind.

The stone is also associated with building wealth, and people keep it on a desk as a reminder of their career and financial goals. See more polished jasper.

To meditate with leopardskin jasper:

• Hold the stone in your hand.
• Sit in a quiet place. Allow the energies of the stone to envelope and fill you.
• Set your intentions to it and focus on the outcomes that you want to achieve through the stone.

Besides meditation, you can carry the stone in your purse or in your pocket to tap into its energies. You can also place it under your pillow or your nightstand.

Note: Stones and crystals have no established effect on the body or mind. All information published here is for educational purposes.