sedimentary
Jasper (Chert)
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with iron oxide impurities
Hardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs); Color: Yellowish-brown (limonitic); Luster: Dull to waxy; Structure: Microcrystalline; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.58-2.91
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Yellowish-brown (limonitic)
- Luster
- Dull to waxy
Identified More sedimentary →
Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs); Color: Yellowish-brown (limonitic); Luster: Dull to waxy; Structure: Microcrystalline; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.58-2.91
Formation & geological history
Formed by the precipitation of silica from groundwater or in marine environments, often as hydrothermal deposits or within sedimentary beds. Its color comes from iron oxide inclusions.
Uses & applications
Used for lapidary work, jewelry (cabochons), river rock landscaping, and as a durable construction aggregate. Historically used for stone tools.
Geological facts
Yellow jasper is often associated with the solar plexus chakra in metaphysical beliefs. Because of its hardness, it is frequently found as rounded river pebbles after long-term erosion.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its smooth, waxy surface when wet, characteristic yellowish-tan-brown color, and inability to be scratched by a steel knife. Commonly found in riverbeds and gravel pits.
More like this
Other sedimentary specimens
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Cone-in-cone structure (Limestone)
Cone-in-cone structure (Secondary Sedimentary Structure)
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