metamorphic
Picasso Stone
Metamorphic Limestone (Marble)
Hardness: 3-4 on Mohs scale; Color: Gray, black, white, and sometimes tan or brown; Luster: Sub-vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Massive; Cleavage: None visible (due to fine-grained massive structure); Specific gravity: ~2.7
- Hardness
- 3-4 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Gray, black, white, and sometimes tan or brown
- Luster
- Sub-vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 3-4 on Mohs scale; Color: Gray, black, white, and sometimes tan or brown; Luster: Sub-vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Massive; Cleavage: None visible (due to fine-grained massive structure); Specific gravity: ~2.7
Formation & geological history
Formed by the metamorphism of limestone. The characteristic patterns are created by the inclusion of iron oxides and other impurities, which form intricate veins and web-like structures during the rock's formation and subsequent fracturing and healing over geological time.
Uses & applications
Used primarily in jewelry as cabochons, carved ornaments, beads, and decorative lapidary objects.
Geological facts
Named "Picasso Stone" or "Picasso Jasper" (though it is not a true jasper, which is chalcedony) because its abstract, geometric, and web-like patterns resemble the artistic style of Pablo Picasso.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinctive abstract web or landscape-like patterns of black, grey, and white lines on a greyish or tan background. It can be distinguished from true jaspers by its lower hardness (can be scratched by harder objects) and reaction to acid (since it is a limestone/marble derivative). commonly found in Utah, USA.
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