Review of existing systems of jaspers nomenclature and classification in Poland and worldwide

Abstract

Nowadays, the term “jasper” is variably defined in petrology and gemology. The unification of the nomenclature and the classification of jaspers seems to be an essential challenge for petrologists worldwide. This misnomer is very commonly used among sellers or collectors of various gemstones. Therefore, a huge diversity in the mineralogical composition, geological settings and genesis of particular “spotted stones” is reported. In this paper the term “jasper” is proposed for all “spotted stones” which have technical properties that make them useful for jewelry and in the production of small stone accessories. Nevertheless, the introduction and approval of the term “true jasper” for rocks of hydrothermal- metasomatic origin and metamorphosed volcanogenic-sedimentary products to petrologic nomenclature is recommended. Different types of jaspers and related rocks have various economic significance. Jaspers or jasper-like rocks are decorative gemstones applied in jewelry, whereas others may be used as refractory materials or feldspar raw materials. In contrast, the petrographic research of jasperoids is useful during prospecting new ore deposits.