sedimentary
Jasper or Agate with Chlorite Inclusions
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Chlorite group minerals
Hardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs); Color: Tan/yellow exterior with green mossy or circular blue-green inclusions; Luster: Waxy to vitreous; Crystal structure: Trigonal (Microcrystalline); Cleavage: None
- Hardness
- 6
- Luster
- Waxy to vitreous
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: Tan/yellow exterior with green mossy or circular blue-green inclusions; Luster: Waxy to vitreous; Crystal structure: Trigonal (Microcrystalline); Cleavage: None
Formation & geological history
Formed through the deposition of silica from groundwater in cavities of volcanic rocks or sedimentary layers. The green coloring is typically derived from chlorite or hornblende minerals trapped during formation.
Uses & applications
Commonly used for lapidary work, cabochons for jewelry, decorative stones, and as a pocket stone for collectors.
Geological facts
Jasper and Agate are both varieties of chalcedony; jasper is opaque while agate is translucent. These stones are often called 'Moss Agate' or 'Ocean Jasper' depending on the specific patterns and locality.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its hardness (will scratch glass) and smooth, water-worn texture. Commonly found in riverbeds or coastal areas where volcanic activity occurred historically.
More like this
Other sedimentary specimens
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