sedimentary
Jasper
Microcrystalline Quartz (SiO2)
Hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, typically opaque with a waxy to dull luster, conchoidal fracture, and colors ranging from reddish-brown to yellow, green, or brown due to iron and other mineral impurities.
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, typically opaque with a waxy to dull luster, conchoidal fracture, and colors ranging from reddish-brown to yellow, green, or brown due to iron and other mineral impurities.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the silica-rich precipitation in marine environments or hydrothermal fluids, often replacing organic material or filling cracks in existing rock formations over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Widely used for making ornamental objects, cabochons for jewelry, small sculptures, and highly prized by mineral and rock collectors.
Geological facts
Jasper has been used since ancient times for creating seals, signet rings, and talismans, and is frequently mentioned in ancient lapidary texts.
Field identification & locations
Can be identified in the field by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and smooth, waxy fracture surface. Commonly found in riverbeds, alluvial deposits, and volcanic regions worldwide.
More like this
Other sedimentary specimens
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Fossiliferous Concretion
Septarian Concretion containing Brachiopods/Crinoids
fossil
Quartz pebble
Silicon dioxide (SiO2)
sedimentary
Generic Pebble / Rock Fragment
Lithic fragment / Weathered rock
sedimentary
Banded Siltstone / Mudstone Pebble
Siltstone / Argillite
sedimentary
Sedimentary Sandstone
Arenite (Sedimentary Rock)
sedimentary