sedimentary
Red Jasper
Silicon Dioxide with Iron inclusions (SiO2)
Hardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs scale); Color: Brick red to brownish-red with dark veins; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal structure: Trigonal (microcrystalline); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.58–2.91.
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Brick red to brownish-red with dark veins
- Luster
- Vitreous to waxy
Identified More sedimentary →
Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs scale); Color: Brick red to brownish-red with dark veins; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal structure: Trigonal (microcrystalline); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.58–2.91.
Formation & geological history
Formed in an environment where silica-rich fluids permeate through volcanic or sedimentary rocks, depositing quartz in cavities. Its red color comes from high concentrations of iron oxide (hematite) during the mineralization process.
Uses & applications
Commonly used for lapidary work including cabochons, beads, and tumbled stones for jewelry. It is also highly popular in the metaphysical and gemstone collecting communities.
Geological facts
Jasper has been used as a gemstone since antiquity; it was known as the 'supreme nurturer' in ancient cultures and was often used in seals and amulets in Mesopotamia and Egypt.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its deep red color, heavy weight (high density), and its inability to be scratched by a steel knife. It is frequently found in riverbeds or coastal areas as water-worn pebbles.
More like this
Other sedimentary specimens
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite (primarily SiO2)
sedimentary
Chert Breccia
Brecciated Chert (Microcrystalline Silica)
sedimentary
Sandstone Grain
Clastic Sedimentary Rock Grain (SiO2 dominated)
sedimentary
Shale or Slaty Mudstone
Argillaceous sedimentary rock
sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite
sedimentary