sedimentary

Mookaite Jasper

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with impurities

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 6.5-7 Mohs; Color: Red, purple, mustard yellow, cream, and tan; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Microcrystalline (Trigonal); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.6-2.9

Hardness: 6
Color: Red, purple, mustard yellow, cream, and tan
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified June 16, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6.5-7 Mohs; Color: Red, purple, mustard yellow, cream, and tan; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Microcrystalline (Trigonal); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.6-2.9

Formation & geological history

Formed from the fossilized remains of radiolaria (microscopic protozoa with silica shells) in shallow marine environments during the Cretaceous period (about 66-145 million years ago). It is a silicified porcellanite.

Uses & applications

Primarily used in jewelry making (beads, cabochons), lapidary art, and as a popular specimen for crystal healing and metaphysical collections.

Geological facts

Mookaite is named after Mooka Creek in Western Australia, which is currently the only known location in the world where this specific type of radiolarite is found. The name 'Mooka' is an Aboriginal word meaning 'running waters'.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its unique earthy 'desert' color palette and high polish. In the field, look for opaque, multicolored chert-like nodules. It is found in the Kennedy Ranges near Gascoyne Junction, Western Australia.