sedimentary

Jasper in Calcite / Brecciated Jasper

Silicon dioxide with calcium carbonate (SiO2 with CaCO3)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness varies from 3 (for the calcite matrix) to 7 (for the quartz/jasper fragments) on the Mohs scale. Colors include white, beige, brown, and dark reddish-purple spots. Luster is dull to vitreous. Cryptocrystalline structure.

Identified August 6, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through sedimentary deposition and chemical precipitation in marine environments, often later subjected to fracturing and healing by mineral-rich hydrothermal solutions (brecciation).

Uses & applications

Used primarily in lapidary arts, decorative objects, tumbled stones, and cabochons for jewelry making.

Geological facts

Brecciated rocks like this form when tectonic activity shatters existing rock layers, and circulating mineral-rich fluids subsequently cement the broken pieces back together.

Field identification & locations

Identified by contrasting hard, colorful jasper fragments embedded within a softer, lighter-colored carbonate matrix. Found globally in regions with ancient sedimentary and hydrothermal activity.