sedimentary
Yellow Jasper
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Iron inclusions
Hardness: 6.5-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Mustard yellow to brownish-yellow; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal (microcrystalline); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.58-2.91
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Mustard yellow to brownish-yellow
- 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 on Mohs scale; Color: Mustard yellow to brownish-yellow; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal (microcrystalline); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.58-2.91
Formation & geological history
Formed through the accumulation of fine-grained silica-rich sediments or volcanic ash. The yellow coloration is primarily due to the presence of goethite or iron oxide. It can be found in sedimentary beds or as nodules in volcanic rocks.
Uses & applications
Commonly used in jewelry (beads, cabochons), ornamental carvings, and 'healing' stones. In history, it was used for seals and decorative inlay.
Geological facts
Jasper is an opaque variety of chalcedony. The name comes from the Greek word 'iaspis', meaning 'spotted stone'. Yellow jasper specifically was historically associated with protection during travel.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its opaque nature, smooth waxy texture when handled, and the characteristic conchoidal fracture if broken. It is often found as river-worn pebbles in regions with volcanic or sedimentary history.
More like this
Other sedimentary specimens
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite (primarily SiO2)
sedimentary
Shale or Slaty Mudstone
Argillaceous sedimentary rock
sedimentary
Chert Breccia
Brecciated Chert (Microcrystalline Silica)
sedimentary
Sandstone (Quartz-rich)
Arenite (SiO2)
sedimentary
Sandstone (with man-made markings)
Arenite (composed primarily of Quartz, SiO2)
sedimentary