sedimentary
Picture Jasper
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with iron oxide and organic impurities
Hardness: 6.5-7.0 (Mohs); Color: Tan, brown, and cream with darker branching patterns; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Structure: Microcrystalline/cryptocrystalline; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.58-2.91
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Tan, brown, and cream with darker branching patterns
- Luster
- Vitreous to waxy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5-7.0 (Mohs); Color: Tan, brown, and cream with darker branching patterns; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Structure: Microcrystalline/cryptocrystalline; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.58-2.91
Formation & geological history
Formed from silica-rich fluids (often volcanic ash) petrifying within sedimentary rock layers, creating unique patterns over millions of years through chemical precipitation.
Uses & applications
Used primarily in lapidary work, jewelry (beads, cabochons), carvings, and as a popular meditation or collector stone due to its scenic patterns.
Geological facts
The patterns in Picture Jasper are often thought to resemble landscapes, deserts, or woods. Each piece is unique, essentially acting as a naturally frozen 'photograph' of geological history.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its 'opaque' nature and landscape-like dendritic or banded patterns. It is commonly found in Idaho and Oregon (specifically the Owyhee region) in the USA.
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