sedimentary

Jasper with Quartz Vein

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 6.5-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Ochre, brown, and green with a white/yellow vein; Luster: Dull to waxy when dry, vitreous when wet; Crystal Structure: Microcrystalline (trigonal); Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture.

Hardness: 6
Color: Ochre, brown, and green with a white/yellow vein
Luster: Dull to waxy when dry, vitreous when wet

Identified July 7, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed from the deposition of silica-rich fluids in volcanic ash or sedimentary layers. The specific colors are due to mineral impurities like iron oxides and silicates. The vein indicates a later fracture that was filled with secondary mineral growth.

Uses & applications

Commonly used for lapidary work, jewelry (cabochons), tumbled stones, and as decorative landscaping gravel.

Geological facts

Jasper is an opaque variety of chalcedony. The name derives from the Greek 'iaspis', meaning spotted stone. It is a dense, impure form of silica that has been smoothed by water erosion in this specific specimen.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its hardness (cannot be scratched by a steel knife) and its smooth, water-worn texture. Commonly found in riverbeds and coastal areas where harder silica rocks survive transport better than softer stones.