sedimentary

Breciated Jasper

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with iron oxide inclusions

Hardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs scale); Color: Red, brown, and black with angular patterns; Luster: Vitreous to waxy (when polished); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (Trigonal); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.58-2.91

Hardness: 6
Color: Red, brown, and black with angular patterns
Luster: Vitreous to waxy (when polished)

Identified July 1, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed when jasper is fractured due to tectonic activity and the cracks are later filled with minerals like hematite or quartz, cementing the fragments together. Often found in hydrothermal veins or as a secondary mineral in volcanic rocks.

Uses & applications

Primarily used for lapidary purposes, including jewelry (cabochons, beads), tumbled stones, decorative carvings, and as a grounding stone in metaphysical practices.

Geological facts

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

Field identification & locations

Look for a microcrystalline quartz base that feels smooth and heavy for its size. In the field, look for opaque stones with distinct 'cracked' or 'mosaic' patterns where different colored veins crisscross. Found globally with major deposits in India, Brazil, and the USA.

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