sedimentary

Mookaite Jasper

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with various inclusions

Hardness: 6.5-7.0 (Mohs scale); Color: Purple, deep red, cream, and mustard yellow; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Microcrystalline; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific gravity: 2.63-2.65

Hardness: 6
Color: Purple, deep red, cream, and mustard yellow
Luster: Vitreous to waxy

Identified June 7, 2026More sedimentary →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed from the fossilized remains of radiolaria (microscopic protozoa) in the Mooka Creek area of Western Australia. It is a silicified Windalia Radiolarite dating back to the Lower Cretaceous period (approx. 120 million years ago).

Uses & applications

Commonly used in lapidary work for making cabochons, beads, and carvings. It is popular in the metaphysical community and as a collector's specimen due to its unique color bands.

Geological facts

Mookaite is only found in one specific location in the world: the Kennedy Ranges near Gascoyne Junction in Western Australia. The term 'Mooka' comes from an Aboriginal word meaning 'running waters'.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its distinct earthy color palette (red, purple, yellow) and its smooth, opaque, porcelain-like texture when broken. It is often found as nodules or layers in weathered radiolarite beds.

Other sedimentary specimens

See all

Sandstone or Siltstone

Arenite (if sandstone)

Sedimentary

Sandstone

Arenite (primarily SiO2)

sedimentary

Chert Breccia

Brecciated Chert (Microcrystalline Silica)

sedimentary

Sandstone Grain

Clastic Sedimentary Rock Grain (SiO2 dominated)

sedimentary

Shale or Slaty Mudstone

Argillaceous sedimentary rock

sedimentary

Sandstone

Arenite

sedimentary