mineral
Jasper
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs scale); Color: Variegated with red, brown, and grey-green tones; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Trigonal (microcrystalline); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.58-2.91.
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Variegated with red, brown, and grey-green tones
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs scale); Color: Variegated with red, brown, and grey-green tones; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Trigonal (microcrystalline); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.58-2.91.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the deposition of silica from water or hydrothermal fluids, often in volcanic or sedimentary environments. It is a microcrystalline variety of quartz.
Uses & applications
Commonly used as gemstones for jewelry (cabochons), ornamental carvings, and historical use as seal stones.
Geological facts
Jasper has been used as a gemstone since antiquity; it was mentioned in the Bible and was highly valued in ancient civilizations for its supposed healing and protective properties.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its waxy luster, variety of colors, and the fact that it cannot be scratched by a steel knife. Frequently found in riverbeds or as nodules in volcanic rock.
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Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Tumbled granite
Granite, a coarse-grained felsic intrusive igneous rock
igneous
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous