sedimentary

Brecciated Red Jasper

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Hematite impurities

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs scale); Color: Rusty red with cream, gray, or black veining; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal Structure: Trigonal (microcrystalline); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.58-2.91

Hardness: 6
Color: Rusty red with cream, gray, or black veining
Luster: Vitreous to dull

Identified June 9, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed when jasper is fractured by tectonic activity and the cracks are subsequently filled with other minerals like clear quartz or hematite through hydrothermal processes. Most specimens are millions of years old.

Uses & applications

Primarily used for lapidary work, jewelry (beads, cabochons), decorative carvings, and as a popular meditation or 'healing' stone in spiritual communities.

Geological facts

The word 'brecciated' comes from the Italian 'breccia', meaning 'gravel' or 'broken stone'. Red jasper specifically gets its color from high concentrations of iron oxide (hematite).

Field identification & locations

Identify by the distinctive 'broken and healed' look where red fragments are separated by quartz veins. Found worldwide, notably in the USA, Brazil, Russia, and South Africa. It will not scratch with a copper penny or steel knife easily.