sedimentary
Yellow Jasper
Cryptocrystalline Quartz (SiO2 with Iron Hydroxide inclusions)
Hardness: 6.5-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Mustard yellow to golden brown; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Structure: Microcrystalline; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.58-2.91
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Mustard yellow to golden brown
- Luster
- Dull to vitreous
Identified More sedimentary →
Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Mustard yellow to golden brown; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Structure: Microcrystalline; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.58-2.91
Formation & geological history
Formed when silica-rich fluids permeate through volcanic ash or sedimentary beds, precipitating microcrystalline quartz. The yellow color is due to the presence of goethite or other iron oxides during formation.
Uses & applications
Primarily used in lapidary arts for cabochons, beads, and carvings. Also used as a healing stone in metaphysical practices and as decor.
Geological facts
Yellow Jasper was historically used as a 'stone of endurance' and protection for travelers. It is a variety of chalcedony that is opaque due to its high mineral inclusion content.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its waxy-to-dull luster, extreme hardness (it will scratch glass), and smooth, shell-like fracture surfaces. Often found in riverbeds or desert pavements in the Western United States.
More like this
Other sedimentary specimens
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Cone-in-cone structure (Limestone)
Cone-in-cone structure (Secondary Sedimentary Structure)
sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite (primarily SiO2)
sedimentary
Chert Breccia
Brecciated Chert (Microcrystalline Silica)
sedimentary
Sandstone Grain
Clastic Sedimentary Rock Grain (SiO2 dominated)
sedimentary
Shale or Slaty Mudstone
Argillaceous sedimentary rock
sedimentary