sedimentary
Jasper pebble (possibly Red Jasper or Lake Superior Agate/Jasper mix)
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Hematite inclusions
Hardness: 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale. Color: Deep reddish-brown to brick red mixed with dark grey or black patches. Luster: Dull to waxy, smooth rounded pebble texture due to water erosion. Crystal Structure: Microcrystalline/Cryptocrystalline quartz. Cleavage: None, exhibits conchoidal fracture.
- Hardness
- 6
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale. Color: Deep reddish-brown to brick red mixed with dark grey or black patches. Luster: Dull to waxy, smooth rounded pebble texture due to water erosion. Crystal Structure: Microcrystalline/Cryptocrystalline quartz. Cleavage: None, exhibits conchoidal fracture.
Formation & geological history
Formed when fine silica-rich fluids precipitated in sedimentary environments or volcanic cavities, with iron oxides (hematite) imparting the rich red color. Smoothly rounded through natural stream, river, or wave action over thousands to millions of years.
Uses & applications
Used for lapidary arts, decorative stream/garden stone collections, tumbling, wire-wrapping jewelry, and as a popular rockhound collectible.
Geological facts
Red jasper gets its striking crimson coloration from iron inclusions. Water-worn pebbles like this are often found along beaches, riverbeds, and glacial till deposits, especially around the Great Lakes region.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its hardness (scratches steel), smooth water-rounded shape, microcrystalline texture without visible individual grains, and opaque deep red and dark grey patterning. Common in alluvial deposits worldwide.
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