Kiwi Jasper (also known as Sesame Jasper)
Granite (Alkali-feldspar granite) comprising Quartz, Feldspar, and Tourmaline · Semi-Precious Gemstone / Decorative Stone
Crystal System
Polycrystalline/Granular; individual components are Trigonal (Quartz/Tourmaline) and Monoclinic/Triclinic (Feldspar)
Mineral Group
Silicates (specifically a rock composed of Tectosilicates and Cyclosilicates)
Chemical Formula
SiO2 + KAlSi3O8 + NaAlSi3O8 with Na(Mg,Fe,Li,Al,Mn)3Al6(BO3)3Si6O18(OH,F)4 inclusions
Formation Process
Igneous: Formed through the slow cooling of silica-rich magma beneath the Earth's surface, allowing for the granular intergrowth of different minerals.
About This Crystal
A pale, sea-foam green to mint-green stone with a speckled or mottled appearance. It features translucent grey quartz patches and distinct black spots (Tourmaline). Usually opaque to semi-translucent with a vitreous to dull luster depending on the polish.
Physical Characteristics
Color: Pale green with black and grey speckles; Streak: White; Cleavage: None (in bulk rock form); Fracture: Uneven to sub-conchoidal; Specific Gravity: 2.6 - 2.7; Fluorescence: Generally none.
Optical Properties
Opaque to translucent; index of refraction approximately 1.54-1.55 (aggregate); lacks significant optical phenomena like chatoyancy or fire.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Primarily sourced from New Zealand; found in pegmatites and granitic plutons.
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness: 6 to 7. Generally durable and tough due to its granitic composition, making it suitable for most jewelry and decorative carvings.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth; avoid ultrasonic cleaners if there are hidden fractures; store away from harder stones like Sapphires or Diamonds to prevent scratching.
Rarity & Value
Common; very affordable. Value is determined by the vibrancy of the green color and the balance of the 'sesame' black speckling. Rarely treated.
Special Characteristics
Features a unique 'salt and pepper' or 'sesame seed' look created by black schorl (tourmaline) crystals suspended in a lighter matrix.
Lore & History
Historically used as a 'nurturing stone.' In modern metaphysical lore, it is believed to help with stress, provide support during times of conflict, and is often associated with the Heart Chakra. Note that these are traditional beliefs and not scientific facts.