What is jasper?

Jasper pebble

   Jasper is a stone used for decorative purposes. Different varieties differ in color; it is found in dark green, grayish blue, brownish black, and reddish brown. Like jade it can be beautifully polished, and is used for vases, small boxes, belt pins, and like articles. It is also in demand for pillars, table tops and interior finshings. Owing to its strength, jasper is frequently used for the walls of buildings. Agate jasper is jasper in layers with chalcedony; this variety is also known as ribbon jasper; the yellow and brown varieties are known as Egyptian jasper.

   Jasper is found in many parts of the United States, the most generally known quarries being at Pipestone, Minnesota, Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and several places in Colorado.