sedimentary
Dyed Imperial Jasper (Sea Sediment Jasper)
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) - Impure Quartz/Chalcedony
Hardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs scale); Color: Neon pink (man-made dye) over tan/beige natural matrix; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal structure: Microcrystalline; Specific gravity: 2.6-2.9.
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Neon pink (man-made dye) over tan/beige natural matrix
- Luster
- Vitreous to waxy
Identified More sedimentary →
Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs scale); Color: Neon pink (man-made dye) over tan/beige natural matrix; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal structure: Microcrystalline; Specific gravity: 2.6-2.9.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the accumulation of silica-rich sediments and mineral-laden waters in cavities or volcanic ash layers. The original stone is often a tan or cream-colored variety of Jasper found in Mexico or China, which is then chemically dyed to achieve the neon hue.
Uses & applications
Used primarily for low-cost jewelry, beadwork, decorative tumbled stones, and 'energy' crystals in metaphysical trade.
Geological facts
While sold under names like 'Sea Sediment Jasper' or 'Imperial Jasper,' the intense neon pink color is never natural. Natural jasper rarely occurs in this saturated fluorescent magenta tone; it is a result of a common stabilization and dyeing process.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its fracture (conchoidal) and hardness. For dyed specimens, check for color concentrations in cracks or a white interior if chipped. Common in retail gift shops and bulk bead markets.
More like this
Other sedimentary specimens
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite (primarily SiO2)
sedimentary
Shale or Slaty Mudstone
Argillaceous sedimentary rock
sedimentary
Chert Breccia
Brecciated Chert (Microcrystalline Silica)
sedimentary
Sandstone (Quartz-rich)
Arenite (SiO2)
sedimentary
Sandstone (with man-made markings)
Arenite (composed primarily of Quartz, SiO2)
sedimentary