mineral

Jasper

Chalcedony (SiO2)

Hardness: 6.5-7 on Mohs scale. Color: Brown, red, orange, yellow, green, or a combination. Luster: Vitreous to dull. Crystal structure: Cryptocrystalline. Cleavage: None. Specific gravity: 2.5-2.9.

Hardness: 6
Color: Brown, red, orange, yellow, green, or a combination
Luster: Vitreous to dull

Identified July 17, 2026More mineral →

Explore Jasper in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Hardness: 6.5-7 on Mohs scale. Color: Brown, red, orange, yellow, green, or a combination. Luster: Vitreous to dull. Crystal structure: Cryptocrystalline. Cleavage: None. Specific gravity: 2.5-2.9.

Formation & geological history

Formed from silica-rich fluids that percolate through rocks and deposit silica in cavities and fractures. Often associated with volcanic activity and hydrothermal environments.

Uses & applications

Commonly used in jewelry, lapidary arts, and as a decorative stone. Also has historical significance in various cultures for its believed healing properties.

Geological facts

Jasper is an opaque variety of chalcedony. The name 'jasper' means 'spotted or speckled stone'. It has been used since antiquity for ornaments and seals.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its opaque nature, hardness, and wide range of colors and patterns. Commonly found worldwide, with notable deposits in the USA, India, Russia, and Madagascar.