sedimentary
Jasper
Microcrystalline quartz (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness 6.5-7 on the Mohs scale, reddish-brown color, waxy to dull luster, cryptocrystalline structure, conchoidal fracture, and specific gravity around 2.65.
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 on the Mohs scale, reddish-brown color, waxy to dull luster, cryptocrystalline structure, conchoidal fracture, and specific gravity around 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the silification of sedimentary deposits or volcanic ash, often rich in iron oxides, occurring globally in ancient marine or terrestrial environments.
Uses & applications
Used primarily for ornamental carvings, jewelry, lapidary arts, and as a popular collector specimen.
Geological facts
Red jasper gets its distinct color from iron oxide inclusions and has been utilized since ancient times for talismans and seals.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its opaque red-brown color and lack of cleavage; commonly found in riverbeds, glacial tills, and mountainous quartz veins.
More like this
Other sedimentary specimens
Fossil-bearing concretion, possibly containing a fossil shell or other organic inclusion
Calcareous concretion; exact fossil and host-rock composition are not identifiable from the image
fossil
Fossiliferous Sedimentary Rock
Sedimentary limestone with invertebrate fossil imprint
fossil
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite
sedimentary
Shale
Shale (clastic sedimentary rock)
sedimentary
Shale (or Mudstone/Siltstone)
Sedimentary Mudrock (SiO2, Al2O3 base with clay minerals)
sedimentary