sedimentary

Fancy Jasper (Butterfly Carving)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with iron and manganese inclusions

Hardness: 6.5-7 Mohs; Color: Forest green, mauve, cream, brick red, and yellow; Luster: Vitreous to waxy (when polished); Structure: Cryptocrystalline/Microcrystalline; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.58-2.91

Hardness: 6
Color: Forest green, mauve, cream, brick red, and yellow
Luster: Vitreous to waxy (when polished)

Identified July 19, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through the deposition of silica-rich fluids in volcanic ash or sedimentary rocks, where iron and other trace minerals create the characteristic swirled or mottled color patterns. Often found in India and Brazil.

Uses & applications

Primarily used for lapidary arts, decorative carvings, jewelry making, and as a collector\\u0027s mineral. Also popular in metaphysical and spiritual practices.

Geological facts

Fancy Jasper is often called the \\u0027Stone of Tranquility\\u0027. Unlike common red jasper, it displays a distinct \\u0027palette\\u0027 of multiple colors caused by uneven distribution of hematite, limonite, and chlorite inclusions.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its opaque nature, high hardness (cannot be scratched by a steel knife), and the presence of varied earthy tones like green, red, and yellow in a single specimen. Common in riverbeds in volcanic regions.

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