Throughout the ages, jasper has been considered one of the most sacred stones for its benevolent powers of protection. This semi-precious stone is frequently carved into various amuletic forms and buried with the dead in cultures as diverse as the Egyptians and the Japanese. In Hebrew mythology, the first stone of Aaron's Breastplate was red jasper, the tenth, yellow jasper and the twelfth, green jasper. In the King James version of the Bible, the 6th and 12th Apocalyptic Gemstones, known in Hebrew as "Yahalom" and "Yashpeh", are sometimes considered to be Jasper. It is also attributed to instilling the "truth of faith". Jasper is also mentioned as being the Patron Stone to Counselors and Therapists. Jasper has long been considered an overall healing gemstone, thought to be especially important for women during childbirth--holding a piece of jasper in the hand during childbirth is said to help relieve pain and guard the mother and child. Red jasper in particular is noted for its protective powers. Surely anyone lucky enough to have worn this gorgeous necklace in antiquity would have been well protected against any potential harm. Though simple, consisting merely of polished jasper beads, the beauty and energy of these age-old stones is overwhelming. This necklace needs no adornment of gold ornaments, for the beads themselves are the centerpiece. Thousands of years ago, a pregnant woman might have worn this same necklace in order to sooth the pains of childbirth. Today, we are instantly connected to this lost world that, as we hold this necklace in our hands, does not seem so far removed from us.

These ancient jasper beads have been strung on a modern necklace