sedimentary
Yellow Jasper
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with iron inclusions
Hardness: 6.5-7 on Mohs scale; Color: mustard yellow to honey brown with veins; Luster: vitreous to waxy; Structure: microcrystalline quartz; Cleavage: none (conchoidal fracture).
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- mustard yellow to honey brown with veins
- Luster
- vitreous to waxy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5-7 on Mohs scale; Color: mustard yellow to honey brown with veins; Luster: vitreous to waxy; Structure: microcrystalline quartz; Cleavage: none (conchoidal fracture).
Formation & geological history
Forms through the infiltration of silica-rich fluids into sediment or volcanic ash. The yellow color is due to the presence of goethite or other iron oxides. Can belong to any geological age from Precambrian to Cenozoic.
Uses & applications
Used extensively for lapidary work, jewelry (beads, cabochons), carvings, and as a popular pocket stone for collectors.
Geological facts
Yellow Jasper is known as a stone of endurance and protection. It is opaque and often shows interesting banding or 'picture' patterns caused by hydrothermal flow.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its hardness (cannot be scratched by a knife), opaque nature, and smooth waxy feel when polished. Commonly found in riverbeds and desert environments globally, notably in the USA, India, and Madagascar.
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