Jamaika gemmer, or Jamaican semi-precious stones, are used in a variety of ways, particularly by local artisans to create wearable, utilitarian, and healing art pieces for both local and international markets[1].
Common Jamaican semi-precious stones include jaspers, agates, quartz, calcite, malachite, and azurite. These stones are typically collected from riverbeds, fields, and even from farmers and fishermen and are then processed—cut and polished—locally to be used in a wide range of products[1].
Some notable uses of Jamaican gemmer include:
- Jewelry making: Artisans transform these stones into necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and rings.
- Art and utilitarian products: Stones are integrated into decorative items, carvings, and functional objects.
- Healing and metaphysical purposes: Certain stones such as jasper and quartz are believed to possess grounding, stabilizing, or healing properties and are used in meditation or as personal talismans[2].
- Economic empowerment: The sourcing, processing, and crafting of these stones support local artisans and create business opportunities within Jamaica’s creative economy[1].
- Export and global trade: These “buried treasures” are sought after overseas for both their aesthetic and metaphysical value and have potential to contribute significantly to Jamaica’s economy[3].
Jamaican petrified wood, in particular, has been recognized internationally for its exceptional quality and is considered among the best in the world[3].
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