Mahe Mariyam Stone

Mahe Mariyam Stone (also known as Sang-e-Maryam, Mariam Jasper, Calligraphy Stone, or Arabic Script Stone) is an opaque stone traded as Mariam Jasper:

• Composition: Our stones are fossil shell fragments set in a matrix of chalcedony (microcrystalline quartz) with iron-oxide hematite. Our gem-testing reports identify the material as chalcedony and name it by its trade name, Mariam Jasper.
• Script-like Patterns: The fossil fragments form dark brown and black markings and swirls against an earthy ochre or tan base. They resemble flowing handwriting or Arabic calligraphy, which gives the stone its names. No two stones are alike.
• Source: Our listings give its source as India.

“Mariam Jasper” is a trade name. The gem-testing reports for our stones identify the material as chalcedony, the quartz family that jasper belongs to, with fossil shell fragments held in that chalcedony matrix:

• Hardness: The reports give a Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7.0, so our stones resist everyday scratches well.
• Refractive Index & Density: A spot refractive index of about 1.54, a typical chalcedony reading, and a specific gravity of about 2.58 to 2.65.
• Not All Calligraphy Stone Is the Same: Some calligraphy stone sold elsewhere is a soft fossil limestone that fizzes in acid, which is why the lab report for the stone you buy matters.
• Cut & Polish: Polished into opaque oval cabochons that show the fossil swirls. For more, read our Mahe Mariyam Stone Guide.

Every Mahe Mariyam gemstone at Ratna Gems is individually tested and comes with a report from an independent gem testing laboratory. The certificate identifies the material as Chalcedony, with the conclusion Natural Mariam Jasper (Mahe Mariyam), exact carat and ratti weight, dimensions, spot refractive index (about 1.54), hardness (6.5–7.0 Mohs), opaque opacity, oval cabochon cut, and confirms its natural, untreated status, with no dyes or polymers. Each report carries its own report number, which you can quote to the laboratory to check it.

Lab Report Included: Every gemstone comes with a report from an independent gem testing laboratory at no extra charge. If you specifically require an additional report from GII, IIGJ, or IGI, you can select it from the certification dropdown on the product page (official laboratory testing fees apply in advance on a non-refundable basis).

At a Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7.0, our Mahe Mariyam suits rings and pendants worn regularly. Gentle care keeps the polish and the fossil patterns at their best:

• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Keep it away from household acids, perfumes, hairsprays and harsh cleaners, which can dull its polish.
• Avoid Knocks: Take rings off for heavy work and sport, and choose a bezel setting that protects the edge of the cabochon.
• Gentle Cleaning: Wipe with a soft, damp cloth and dry it straight away. Do not use ultrasonic or steam cleaners.

Mahe Mariyam has a treasured cultural legacy across Islamic, Persian, and Indian folk lapidary:

• Cultural Talismanic Legacy: Revered in Persian and Islamic folklore as Sang-e-Maryam or Hajar-e-Mariyam, the natural calligraphy-like patterns were historically admired as wonders of natural art. It has traditionally been fashioned into signet rings, prayer beads (Tasbih), and protective amulets.
• Astrological Context: In classical Vedic Jyotish Shastra, Mahe Mariyam is not classified as a primary planetary gem (Navratna) or canonical ancient substitute (Upratna). It is worn in contemporary jewelry for its natural script-like patterns.
• Customary Mounting: Customarily set in Sterling Silver (925 Silver), Panchdhatu, or brass bezel settings that shield the girdle of the cabochon in statement rings and pendants.