mineral

Dendritic Jasper

SiO2 (Microcrystalline Quartz)

Hardness: 6.5-7 on Mohs scale. Color: Brownish-red to tan background with dark brown to black dendritic (branch-like) inclusions. Luster: Vitreous to dull. Crystal structure: Microcrystalline. Cleavage: None. Specific gravity: 2.58-2.91.

Hardness: 6
Luster: Vitreous to dull

Identified July 17, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms primarily as a secondary mineral in sedimentary environments where silica-rich fluids permeate existing rocks. The dendritic patterns are typically caused by iron or manganese oxide inclusions that precipitate out of the fluids along microscopic fractures.

Uses & applications

Widely used in lapidary arts for making beads, cabochons, and ornamental carvings. Also popular among collectors and in some metaphysical practices.

Geological facts

The name 'dendrite' comes from the Greek word 'dendron,' meaning tree, referring to the branching, plant-like appearance of the inclusions. Jasper itself is a generic term for opaque, impure varieties of silica.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its distinctive tree-like or fern-like inclusions against a typically opaque, solid-colored background. Often confused with dendritic agate, but jasper is opaque while agate is translucent. Commonly found worldwide, with notable deposits in the US, Africa, and Brazil.