sedimentary (chemical/biological)

Jasper (Milky/Cream Variety)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) - variety of Chalcedony

Hardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs scale); Color: Creamy white, beige, and tan with subtle swirling; Luster: Dull to waxy; Crystal structure: Trigonal (microcrystalline); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.58-2.91.

Hardness: 6
Color: Creamy white, beige, and tan with subtle swirling
Luster: Dull to waxy

Identified March 24, 2026More sedimentary (chemical/biological) →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed from the deposition of silica from water solutions or volcanic ash into a solid rock mass. This specimen shows river-worn or ocean-tumbled rounding, indicating it was shaped by water erosion over thousands of years.

Uses & applications

Used primarily for lapidary work, jewelry (cabochons), palm stones for meditation, and decorative landscaping. In high volumes, it is used in industrial abrasives.

Geological facts

Jasper has been used since antiquity; the name comes from the Greek 'iaspis'. Because it is microcrystalline, the individual quartz crystals are too small to be seen even under a light microscope.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (it will scratch glass) and lack of transparency. Common in riverbeds, beaches, and desert washes. Collectors look for the unique 'painterly' patterns created by mineral impurities like iron.

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Jasper with Pyrite (Gold-colored inclusions)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Iron Disulfide (FeS2) inclusions

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Green Jasper with Agate Banding

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with impurities of ferrous silicate or chlorite

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Jasper (specifically Polychrome or Desert Jasper)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with iron oxide and other mineral impurities

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Red Jasper (Plum or Brick variety)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with iron oxide inclusions (Hematite)

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Jasper (Wonderstone/Banded Jasper)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with iron oxide impurities

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Orange Calcite

Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3)

mineral