sedimentary
Red Jasper
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Hematite impurities
Hardness: 6.5-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Brick red to brownish red with darker patterns; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal Structure: Trigonal (microcrystalline); Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.58-2.91
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Brick red to brownish red with darker patterns
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Brick red to brownish red with darker patterns; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal Structure: Trigonal (microcrystalline); Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.58-2.91
Formation & geological history
Forms in hydrothermal veins or sedimentary environments where silica-rich fluids permeate porous rocks or volcanic ash. The red color is caused by iron (hematite) inclusions within the dense silica mass.
Uses & applications
Widely used as a gemstone for jewelry, lapidary and decorative carvings, meditation stones, and historically as seal stones or amulets.
Geological facts
Red Jasper was traditionally known as the 'stone of endurance' in ancient cultures. It is a dense, opaque variety of chalcedony that does not show light through the edges compared to carnelian or agate.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its deep red color, opacity, and ability to scratch glass. Found globally, prominent sources include Brazil, France, Germany, India, Russia, and the USA (California and Oregon).
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