sedimentary

Brecciated Jasper

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Hematite impurities

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs scale); Color: Red, brown, and ivory patterns; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Structure: Microcrystalline; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.58-2.91

Hardness: 6
Color: Red, brown, and ivory patterns
Luster: Vitreous to waxy

Identified March 18, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs scale); Color: Red, brown, and ivory patterns; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Structure: Microcrystalline; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.58-2.91

Formation & geological history

Formed when Jasper (a variety of chalcedony) is broken by tectonic movement and subsequently 'cemented' together by another mineral, usually clear or translucent chalcedony or quartz, over millions of years.

Uses & applications

Used primarily in lapidary arts for cabochons, beads, and decorative carvings; also popular in metaphysical collections and as an ornamental architectural stone.

Geological facts

The name comes from 'breccia', a geological term for rock composed of broken fragments of minerals or rock cemented together. The red color in this specific specimen is caused by oxygenated iron (hematite).

Field identification & locations

Identify by its 'shattered' appearance with red Jasper chunks separated by white or translucent quartz veins. Commonly found in large deposits in South Africa, Brazil, and the Southwestern USA.