sedimentary
Jasper
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs scale); Color: Red, brown, and tan (banded); Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal structure: Microcrystalline (Trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.58-2.91
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Red, brown, and tan (banded)
- Luster
- Vitreous to waxy
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: Red, brown, and tan (banded); Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal structure: Microcrystalline (Trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.58-2.91
Formation & geological history
Formed through the deposition of silica from mineral-rich groundwaters or volcanic ash. The red and tan patterns are caused by iron oxide (hematite) inclusions within the fine-grained quartz matrix, often appearing in sedimentary environments or as primary hydrothermal deposits.
Uses & applications
Used primarily for ornamental purposes, jewelry (cabochons and beads), lapidary art, and collectors' display specimens. It has also historically been used for making seals and amulets.
Geological facts
Jasper is an opaque variety of chalcedony. The name is derived from the Greek word 'iaspis', meaning spotted stone. It is a diverse stone with hundreds of named varieties based on color patterns and locations.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its hardness (cannot be scratched by a steel pocket knife) and its smooth, waxy luster when tumbled or wet. Commonly found in riverbeds and desert environments where silica-rich minerals accumulate.
More like this
Other sedimentary specimens
Fossiliferous Sedimentary Rock
Sedimentary limestone with invertebrate fossil imprint
fossil
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Quartz pebble
Silicon dioxide (SiO2)
sedimentary
Generic Pebble / Rock Fragment
Lithic fragment / Weathered rock
sedimentary
Sedimentary Sandstone
Arenite (Sedimentary Rock)
sedimentary
Shale (or Mudstone/Siltstone)
Sedimentary Mudrock (SiO2, Al2O3 base with clay minerals)
sedimentary