mineral

Jasper

Silicon dioxide (SiO2)

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

Identified July 17, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

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

Formation & geological history

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

Uses & applications

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

Geological facts

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

Field identification & locations

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.