sedimentary
Mookaite Jasper
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with impurities
Hardness: 6.5-7 Mohs; Color: Red, purple, mustard yellow, cream, and tan; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Microcrystalline (Trigonal); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.6-2.9
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Red, purple, mustard yellow, cream, and tan
- Luster
- Vitreous to greasy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5-7 Mohs; Color: Red, purple, mustard yellow, cream, and tan; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Microcrystalline (Trigonal); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.6-2.9
Formation & geological history
Formed from the fossilized remains of radiolaria (microscopic protozoa with silica shells) in shallow marine environments during the Cretaceous period (about 66-145 million years ago). It is a silicified porcellanite.
Uses & applications
Primarily used in jewelry making (beads, cabochons), lapidary art, and as a popular specimen for crystal healing and metaphysical collections.
Geological facts
Mookaite is named after Mooka Creek in Western Australia, which is currently the only known location in the world where this specific type of radiolarite is found. The name 'Mooka' is an Aboriginal word meaning 'running waters'.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its unique earthy 'desert' color palette and high polish. In the field, look for opaque, multicolored chert-like nodules. It is found in the Kennedy Ranges near Gascoyne Junction, Western Australia.
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