sedimentary
Yellow Jasper
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with iron hydroxides
Hardness: 6.5-7 Mohs; Color: Mustard yellow to golden brown; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Structure: Microcrystalline; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.58-2.91
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Mustard yellow to golden brown
- Luster
- Vitreous 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: Mustard yellow to golden brown; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Structure: Microcrystalline; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.58-2.91
Formation & geological history
Formed through the infiltration of silica-rich waters into sedimentary rocks or volcanic ash, with the yellow color derived from iron-oxide inclusions like goethite. Often found as nodules or vein-filling material.
Uses & applications
Used primarily in lapidary work for cabochons, beads, and ornemental carvings; also highly valued in metaphysical communities for collection.
Geological facts
Jasper is an opaque variety of chalcedony. The name comes from the Greek word 'iaspis', meaning spotted stone, though yellow jasper is often more uniform in color.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its hardness (cannot be scratched by a knife), opaque transparency, and smooth, waxy surface. Look in river beds and desert environments worldwide, especially in India, South Africa, and the USA.
More like this
Other sedimentary specimens
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Chert Breccia
Brecciated Chert (Microcrystalline Silica)
sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite (primarily SiO2)
sedimentary
Sandstone Grain
Clastic Sedimentary Rock Grain (SiO2 dominated)
sedimentary
Shale or Slaty Mudstone
Argillaceous sedimentary rock
sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite
sedimentary