sedimentary
Jasper
Microcrystalline quartz (SiO2) with impurities
Hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, opaque luster, smooth water-worn texture, colors typically include shades of red, yellow, brown, and sometimes green due to iron oxide impurities, amorphous or cryptocrystalline structure with conchoidal fracture.
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 of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, opaque luster, smooth water-worn texture, colors typically include shades of red, yellow, brown, and sometimes green due to iron oxide impurities, amorphous or cryptocrystalline structure with conchoidal fracture.
Formation & geological history
Forms from silica-rich fluids precipitating in sedimentary environments or hydrothermal veins, often later weathered and tumbled by water currents in rivers or ocean beaches.
Uses & applications
Used for ornamental carvings, polished stones, cabochons in jewelry, and geological collecting.
Geological facts
Jasper has been used throughout human history since ancient times for seals, talismans, and jewelry due to its durability and rich earth-toned colors.
Field identification & locations
Found worldwide in riverbeds, marine gravels, and ancient volcanic or sedimentary formations. Identify by its high hardness, inability to be scratched by steel, waxy luster, and opaque earthy patterns.
More like this
Other sedimentary specimens
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Sedimentary Sandstone
Arenite (Sedimentary Rock)
sedimentary
Fossiliferous Concretion
Septarian Concretion containing Brachiopods/Crinoids
fossil
Banded Siltstone / Mudstone Pebble
Siltstone / Argillite
sedimentary
Shale (or Mudstone/Siltstone)
Sedimentary Mudrock (SiO2, Al2O3 base with clay minerals)
sedimentary
Shale
Shale (clastic sedimentary rock)
sedimentary