sedimentary

Iron-rich jasper (brecciated hematite jasper)

Siliceous hematite–goethite jasper, commonly containing microcrystalline quartz (SiO₂), hematite (Fe₂O₃), and goethite (FeO(OH))

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness roughly 6–7 (quartz-rich portions), locally softer where iron oxides dominate; brick-red, orange, black, and brown, with earthy to submetallic luster. Massive and brecciated rather than visibly crystalline; no prominent cleavage; specific gravity commonly about 2.8–4.5.

Identified September 13, 2026More sedimentary →

Explore Iron-rich jasper (brecciated hematite jasper) in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

At a glance

Common name: Iron-rich jasper (brecciated hematite jasper)
Scientific name: Siliceous hematite–goethite jasper, commonly containing microcrystalline quartz (SiO₂), hematite (Fe₂O₃), and goethite (FeO(OH))
Category: sedimentary
Identified: September 13, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $10–$60 for a hand specimen; $50–$200 or more for unusually colorful, polished, or well-provenanced pieces.

Not an official valuation

AI estimate for general interest only — not an appraisal. Actual value depends on condition, provenance, and market demand. Verify with a professional before buying, selling, or insuring.

This identification was generated by AI and may contain errors. Verify important details before relying on them — and never use an AI result to judge whether a specimen is safe to handle. Read the full disclaimer

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms when silica-rich fluids cement and replace iron-oxide-rich breccia, commonly in ancient hydrothermal or banded-iron-formation environments. Individual specimens may be Precambrian, often older than 1.8 billion years.

Uses & applications

Used as an ornamental lapidary stone, cabochon, carving material, and collector specimen; iron-rich varieties have also been historically associated with iron ore deposits.

Geological facts

The vivid red-orange colors are produced mainly by hematite and goethite, while black zones may contain magnetite or manganese oxides.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its rusty red/orange breccia, black metallic patches, heavy feel, and lack of fizz in dilute acid; a streak test may produce a red-brown streak. Common sources include Australia, Brazil, India, and South Africa.