Who is Poppy Jasper – an actress? And why is the festival named after her?
Actually, Poppy Jasper is not a “who” – it’s a “what.” It is a semi-precious gemstone noted for its red and yellow circles or ‘orbs” on a field of white or black. Like the festival, Poppy Jasper is unique to Morgan Hill . The Smithsonian in Washington D.C. lists Morgan Hill as the “type locality” for this beautiful – and rare – gemstone. Beautiful samples of the Poppy Jasper gemstone are on display in various locations throughout the city.
