sedimentary or igneous-associated mineral
Jasper (specifically Polychrome or Desert Jasper)
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with impurities
Hardness: 6.5–7 on the Mohs scale; Color: Multi-colored bands (olive, burgundy, tan); Luster: Vitreous to dull when unpolished, waxy when polished; Crystal Structure: Microcrystalline (Trigonal); Cleavage: None (Conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.58–2.91.
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Multi-colored bands (olive, burgundy, tan)
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull when unpolished, waxy when polished
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5–7 on the Mohs scale; Color: Multi-colored bands (olive, burgundy, tan); Luster: Vitreous to dull when unpolished, waxy when polished; Crystal Structure: Microcrystalline (Trigonal); Cleavage: None (Conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.58–2.91.
Formation & geological history
Formed from silica-rich fluids percolating through volcanic ash or sedimentary pockets. The colors are created by mineral inclusions such as Iron (hematite/goethite). Most high-quality Polychrome Jasper is found in Madagascar in formations dating back millions of years.
Uses & applications
Primarily used in jewelry as cabochons, lapidary arts for sculptures, and as a decorative stone for home decor or meditation 'pocket stones'.
Geological facts
Jasper was a favorite gem in the ancient world; its name can be traced back in Arabic, Persian, Greek, and Latin. Polychrome Jasper was only discovered relatively recently (around 2006) during a search for new veins of Ocean Jasper in Madagascar.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its opaque nature (it does not let light through even at the edges), its extreme hardness (it will scratch glass), and its distinct 'orbicular' or 'flame-like' patterns. Common locations include Madagascar, South Africa, and the USA (Oregon and Idaho).
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