sedimentary
Jasper
Microcrystalline Quartz (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, opaque luster, various earth tones of red, brown, yellow, and green, and a 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, various earth tones of red, brown, yellow, and green, and a conchoidal fracture.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the silification of sedimentary or volcanic rocks, often via silica-rich hydrothermal fluids depositing in marine or terrestrial basins.
Uses & applications
Used primarily in ornamental carvings, cabochons, jewelry, and as a popular specimen for rock collectors.
Geological facts
Jasper has been utilized by ancient civilizations since the 4th millennium BC for making tools, seals, and decorative items.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its opaque nature, waxy luster, and resilience against steel scratching; commonly found in riverbeds and mountainous regions worldwide.
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