Unearthed by the Madagascan Tide | Ocean Jasper
If you haven’t yet encountered Ocean Jasper, it’s likely because this stunning crystal is one of the rarer gemstones in the world, with a captivating and unique story behind its discovery. Known for its extraordinary energy and ability to spark creativity, Ocean Jasper is a stone that seems to resonate with both the spirit and the imagination. When I first came across it, I couldn’t quite place it - but something about its presence spoke to me on a deep level. My fascination only grew when I delved into its rich and intriguing history.
Let me share with you the story of Ocean Jasper, from its mystical origins to its remarkable ability to inspire and heal.
Ocean Jasper, a stone of mesmerising beauty and spiritual significance, is a rare and cherished treasure found only in northwestern Madagascar. Also known as the ‘Atlantis Stone,’ it is believed to hold ancient wisdom within its structure, connecting those who seek spiritual enlightenment to the mysteries of the lost city of Atlantis. With its captivating orbs and waves of colour, Ocean Jasper serves as a portal to inner peace, spiritual awareness and creativity.
Meaning & Energy
Closely associated with the Throat, Heart and Solar Plexus chakras, Ocean Jasper fosters healthy communication, emotional balance and inner strength. Its calming vibrations soothe the soul, making it an ideal companion for meditation, energy healing and self-reflection. Many believe that Ocean Jasper aids in uncovering past-life knowledge, offering a sense of continuity and grounding to those who seek deeper spiritual awareness.
Its ability to dispel negativity and purify the aura makes Ocean Jasper a talisman of tranquility. Known for alleviating stress and anxiety, it fosters a sense of comfort and protection, allowing its wearer to navigate life’s challenges with resilience and grace. Its gentle yet powerful energy encourages understanding, empathy and a heightened intellect, making it a favoured stone among healers, creatives and spiritual seekers alike.
Lost & Found | The History
The story behind Ocean Jasper’s emergence is as captivating as the stone itself. Initially discovered in 1922, the location of this elusive mineral was lost again for another 75 years. It wasn't until Paul Obenich of Madagascar Minerals embarked on an extensive search along Madagascar’s rugged coastline that the deposit was finally rediscovered. The key to finding it again lay in understanding the crucial role of the tide. As it turns out, Ocean Jasper is only visible and accessible at low tide, which contributed to its long-standing obscurity.
In the year 2000, at the renowned Tucson Gem & Mineral Show, the gemstone was formally introduced to the world. Eugene Mueller of The Gem Shop, Inc. instantly recognised its unparalleled quality, distinguishing it from other silica-rich rhyolites such as Rainforest Jasper from Australia, Leopardskin Jasper from Mexico, and California’s famous Poppy Jasper. Unlike these stones, Ocean Jasper stood apart as a truly unique material, with its intricate, orb-like patterns resembling the swirling surf of the ocean. Though scientifically an orbicular chalcedony rather than a true jasper, its classification was influenced by the historical association of jasper with rhyolitic patterns and the legal designation of the mineral resource in Madagascar.
Between 2000 and 2006, eight different veins of Ocean Jasper were mined, with the original deposit extending approximately 40 meters into the host rock before depletion. As the veins thinned, mining operations ceased, and the supply of fresh material dwindled. The stone’s rarity, combined with its captivating beauty, has since led to a significant increase in its value.
Although traditional mining operations came to an end, a newly discovered locality for Sea Jasper (Ocean Jasper) has been unearthed, bringing a renewed but limited supply to collectors worldwide.
A Personal Note & Practical Tips on Everyday Use 🌊💙✨
Ocean Jasper has long been a personal favourite of mine. I keep two pieces near my desk, always within reach, and often find myself holding onto them when the day feels heavy or my energy is low. There’s something about its presence - calming yet quietly powerful - that helps me clear my mind, regain my strength and on occasion, even spark a wave of creative inspiration.
Lastly, here are a few tips on how to incorporate Ocean Jasper into your daily life. A tumbled stone is a perfect companion to carry with you throughout the day, offering a subtle yet uplifting boost of energy wherever you go. If, like me, you're particularly drawn to spheres, you'll find that Ocean Jasper spheres seem to radiate a unique balancing and even joyous energy. For a more striking display, an asymmetrical shape such as a freeform piece (like the one pictured above) beautifully showcases the stone’s intricate orbital patterns and its mystical essence.
