sedimentary
Jasper
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) - Microcrystalline Quartz
Hardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs scale); Color: Brown, tan, and reddish-pink patterns; Luster: Waxy to vitreous; Crystal Structure: Trigonal (microcrystalline/cryptocrystalline); Specific Gravity: 2.58-2.91
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Brown, tan, and reddish-pink patterns
- Luster
- Waxy to vitreous
Identified More sedimentary →
Explore Jasper in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs scale); Color: Brown, tan, and reddish-pink patterns; Luster: Waxy to vitreous; Crystal Structure: Trigonal (microcrystalline/cryptocrystalline); Specific Gravity: 2.58-2.91
Formation & geological history
Formed through the deposition of silica from water-rich environments, often in hydrothermal veins or sedimentary deposits where silica replaces organic material or volcanic ash. This specimen has been tumbled and polished.
Uses & applications
Commonly used in lapidary work, jewelry making (cabochons and beads), ornamental stones, and as a pocket stone for collectors.
Geological facts
Jasper is an opaque variety of chalcedony. The name comes from the Greek word 'iaspis', meaning spotted stone. It is often multi-colored due to mineral impurities like iron oxides.
Field identification & locations
Look for its high hardness (it cannot be scratched by a steel knife) and its smooth, waxy luster when polished. It often features distinct color banding or mottled 'cloudy' patterns and displays a conchoidal fracture.
More like this
Other sedimentary specimens
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Cone-in-cone structure (Limestone)
Cone-in-cone structure (Secondary Sedimentary Structure)
sedimentary
Brown Sandstone (River Rock)
Arenite
sedimentary
Sandstone Grain
Clastic Sedimentary Rock Grain (SiO2 dominated)
sedimentary
Chert Breccia
Brecciated Chert (Microcrystalline Silica)
sedimentary
Shale or Slaty Mudstone
Argillaceous sedimentary rock
sedimentary