sedimentary

Jasper (specifically Red Jasper)

Silicon Dioxide with Iron Oxides (SiO2 + Fe2O3)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 6.5 - 7 on the Mohs scale; Color: Brick red to brownish-red with dark grey streaks; Luster: Dull to waxy; Crystal structure: Microcrystalline/Cryptocrystalline (Trigonal); Cleavage: None (Conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.58 - 2.91

Hardness: 6
Color: Brick red to brownish-red with dark grey streaks
Luster: Dull to waxy

Identified March 25, 2026More sedimentary →

Explore Jasper (specifically Red Jasper) in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

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

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed via silica-rich fluids permeating through porous volcanic or sedimentary rocks, often enriched with iron minerals during late-stage hydrothermal activity. This specimen shows signs of alluvial smoothing, likely tumbled in a riverbed or shoreline for thousands of years.

Uses & applications

Primarily used in jewelry (cabs, beads, pendants), lapidary art, and ornamental carvings. Historically used to make scrapers and arrowheads due to its conchoidal fracturing and hardness.

Geological facts

In antiquity, Red Jasper was known as the 'stone of endurance' and was a popular stone for creating scarabs in Ancient Egypt. The red color is caused specifically by inclusions of hematite.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its high hardness (it will scratch glass) and lack of transparency (unlike agate, jasper is opaque). It is commonly found globally, particularly in areas with ancient volcanic activity like the American Southwest, South Africa, and Brazil.