sedimentary
Green Jasper
Microcrystalline Quartz (SiO2) with inclusions
Hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, pale to dark green color often with brown or dark veins, waxy to dull luster, cryptocrystalline structure, conchoidal fracture with no cleavage, specific gravity of 2.58 to 2.91.
Identified More sedimentary →
Explore Green Jasper in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, pale to dark green color often with brown or dark veins, waxy to dull luster, cryptocrystalline structure, conchoidal fracture with no cleavage, specific gravity of 2.58 to 2.91.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the hydrothermal deposition of silica-rich fluids or accumulation of silica-rich radiolarian ooze in marine environments, later subjected to diagenesis and low-grade metamorphism.
Uses & applications
Used in ornamental carvings, cabochons, polished pocket stones, jewelry making, and metaphysical practices.
Geological facts
Green jasper has been used since ancient times for talismans and seals. The dark web-like veins visible in many specimens are often filled with iron oxides or clay minerals.
Field identification & locations
Can be identified in the field by its smooth tumbled or water-worn texture, hardness (scratches glass), and characteristic opaque green coloration with contrasting fracture lines. Found globally in riverbeds, marine deposits, and mountainous regions.
More like this
Other sedimentary specimens
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Fossiliferous Concretion
Septarian Concretion containing Brachiopods/Crinoids
fossil
Quartz pebble
Silicon dioxide (SiO2)
sedimentary
Generic Pebble / Rock Fragment
Lithic fragment / Weathered rock
sedimentary
Banded Siltstone / Mudstone Pebble
Siltstone / Argillite
sedimentary
Sedimentary Sandstone
Arenite (Sedimentary Rock)
sedimentary