sedimentary
Jasper
Microcrystalline Quartz (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectMohs hardness of 6.5 to 7, earthy to vitreous luster, opaque with varied red, brown, yellow, or green colors, and 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
Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7, earthy to vitreous luster, opaque with varied red, brown, yellow, or green colors, and conchoidal fracture.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the silification of sedimentary or volcanic rocks, where silica-rich fluids precipitate microcrystalline quartz in cavities or beds.
Uses & applications
Used in ornamental carvings, cabochons, jewelry, and lapidary art.
Geological facts
Jasper has been used since ancient times for talismans, seals, and weaponry components like arrowheads due to its toughness.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its opaque nature, lack of cleavage, waxy luster, and bright iron-oxide staining; common in riverbeds and mountainous regions.
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