Marston Ranch Jasper

Marston Ranch Jasper, also sometimes referred to as Marston Ranch Christmas Jasper, is a variety of jasper-replaced petrified wood. As one might expect, this jasper occurs only at the Marston Ranch in Jefferson County, Oregon. Jefferson County falls within the Ash Butte, a geologic formation that resulted from settling of volcanic ash along its sides. This environment is perfect for both jasper and petrified wood to form. The exact origins surrounding whether or not this is indeed jasper-replaced petrified wood or instead a type of jasper formed by a different mechanism is still hotly debated, but is becoming increasingly likely as research continues.