sedimentary
Banded Jasper
Silicon Dioxide with Iron Oxide impurities (SiO2)
Hardness 6.5-7 on Mohs scale, opaque dull to waxy luster, tan/beige matrix with reddish-brown hematite bands, microcrystalline structure, conchoidal fracture
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Physical properties
Hardness 6.5-7 on Mohs scale, opaque dull to waxy luster, tan/beige matrix with reddish-brown hematite bands, microcrystalline structure, conchoidal fracture
Formation & geological history
Formed through precipitation of microcrystalline silica in marine or alluvial environments, often stained by secondary iron oxides during diagenesis
Uses & applications
Used primarily as tumbled stones, ornamental cabochons, lapidary art, and rock collections
Geological facts
Jasper is an opaque variety of chalcedony that owes its distinct colors to tiny mineral inclusions, mostly hematite for red hues
Field identification & locations
Identified by its fine-grained texture, hardness (cannot be scratched by steel), and distinct color striping or veining. Commonly found in riverbeds and gravel deposits worldwide
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