sedimentary

Jasper

Microcrystalline quartz (SiO2)

Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7, earthy to vitreous luster, opaque red, brown, and yellow colors, with conchoidal fracture.

Identified November 14, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7, earthy to vitreous luster, opaque red, brown, and yellow colors, with conchoidal fracture.

Forms via silica-rich solutions precipitating in sedimentary environments or hydrothermal veins over millions of years.

Used primarily for ornamental carvings, cabochons, jewelry, and polished collector specimens.

Jasper has been utilized since ancient times for talismans, seals, and weaponry components due to its toughness.

Identify by its dense, opaque appearance and distinct conchoidal breakage; commonly found globally in riverbeds and ancient volcanic deposits.

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

Sandstone or Siltstone

Arenite (if sandstone)

Fossiliferous Sedimentary Rock

Sedimentary limestone with invertebrate fossil imprint

Shale

Fissile Sedimentary Rock

Sandstone

Arenite

Shale

Clastic sedimentary rock