Jasper

Hardness 6.5-7 on Mohs scale, opaque, smooth surface, red, brown, yellow, green, or other colors, conchoidal fracture

Formed from silica-rich fluids that deposit microcrystalline quartz in veins or cavities, often near volcanic activity, hydrothermal vents, or sedimentary environments

Jewelry, lapidary arts, ornamental carving, and healing/metaphysical uses

Jasper is an opaque variety of chalcedony. The name 'jasper' comes from the Greek word 'iaspis', meaning 'spotted stone'.

Identified by its opaque nature, hardness, and variety of colors and patterns. Commonly found worldwide, with notable deposits in the US, Madagascar, India, and Russia.