sedimentary

Brecciated Jasper (Polished)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Iron Oxide Impurities

Hardness: 6.5-7 on Mohs scale. Color: Mottled red, yellow, and greenish-brown patches with microcrystalline patterns. Luster: Vitreous to waxy. Structure: Microcrystalline aggregate (Chalcedony/Quartz family). Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific Gravity: ~2.65.

Hardness: 6
Luster: Vitreous to waxy

Identified July 25, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed when original microcrystalline quartz (jasper) is broken by tectonic movement and later recemented by silica-rich waters containing iron oxides and other mineral impurities. Commonly found in sedimentary and low-grade metamorphic environments.

Uses & applications

Used extensively in lapidary arts, jewelry making (cabochons, beads), decorative carvings, and as tumbled stone specimens for mineral collectors.

Geological facts

The red color in jasper comes from fine particles of hematite (iron oxide), while yellow hues are typically caused by goethite or limonite. 'Brecciated' comes from the Italian word 'breccia', meaning broken stone or rubble.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its high hardness (scratches glass), opaque nature, conchoidal fracture, and broken/mottled color patchwork. Found globally in regions with altered sedimentary rocks, such as South Africa, India, Brazil, and the Western United States.

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