sedimentary
Jasper
Silicon Dioxide (Microcrystalline Quartz)
Hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, colors vary widely including red, yellow, brown, and green, vitreous to dull luster, cryptocrystalline structure with no visible cleavage, specific gravity of 2.58 to 2.91.
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, colors vary widely including red, yellow, brown, and green, vitreous to dull luster, cryptocrystalline structure with no visible cleavage, specific gravity of 2.58 to 2.91.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the deposition of silica-rich fluids or sediments in marine or hydrothermal environments, often involving silicious ooze or volcanic ash, occurring across various geological eras.
Uses & applications
Commonly used in lapidary work, decorative objects, cabochons, jewelry, and gemstone carving, as well as valued by collectors.
Geological facts
Jasper has been used since ancient times for creating seals, talismans, and decorative tools. Its multicolored patterns are due to impurities like iron oxides and clay minerals.
Field identification & locations
Can be identified in the field by its conchoidal fracture, high hardness that scratches glass, and waxy luster. Found worldwide in riverbeds, ancient marine deposits, and mountainous regions.
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