World of Jaspers by Hans Gamma

In case you haven't heard, I love jasper. In fact, I wanted to name our cat Sebastian Jasper, but Sam vetoed the name. My love for this stone goes deep. Ranging in color and pattern, and resembling anything from abstract expressionist paintings to watercolor landscapes, jaspers are some of the most beautiful stones around.

When I came upon Hans Gamma's website documenting the beauty of jasper, I fell in love all over again.

Can you believe these came out of the ground?

Jasper is a variety of chalcedony, and its fitting name means "spotted or speckled stone." Jasper is known to have been a favorite gem in the ancient world; its name can be traced back in Arabic, Persian, Hebrew, Assyrian, Greek and Latin.

Some "picture jaspers," resembling alien and familiar landscapes.

From his website:

For many years, I've been pursuing with passion the exquisite colors and designs in Jaspers and to document each precise locality. Originally from Switzerland, I retired in the beautiful Arizona Desert, where I continue with enthusiasm the collecting, cutting and polishing to unveil the secrets of the World of Jaspers.

It's impossible to choose a favorite, but I especially love ocean jasper, also known as orbital jasper. The cartoon circles and the contrast between greens and pink is unbelievable.

These two remind me of jawbreakers.

Visit his website for more amazing photos and information about each stone. He also has a book available here if you want to put something pretty on your coffee table.

Some jaspers look like photographs or a view through a microscope at the inner workings of the human body.

All photos © Hans Gamma