sedimentary
Jasper with Epidote
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Calcium Aluminum Iron Silicate (Ca2(Al,Fe)3(SiO4)3(OH))
Hardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs); Color: Red/brown with green inclusions/streaks; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal structure: Microcrystalline (Jasper) and Monoclinic (Epidote); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture).
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Red/brown with green inclusions/streaks
- Luster
- Vitreous to waxy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs); Color: Red/brown with green inclusions/streaks; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal structure: Microcrystalline (Jasper) and Monoclinic (Epidote); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture).
Formation & geological history
Formed through the deposition of silica from hydrothermal solutions or within volcanic ash beds, with epidote often forming later through hydrothermal alteration or low-grade metamorphism.
Uses & applications
Used primarily for lapidary work, jewelry (cabochons), as decorative garden stones, and collected as mineral specimens.
Geological facts
Jasper is a variety of chalcedony that owes its red color to iron inclusions. When it contains green epidote, it is often sought after by lapidaries for its high contrast and ability to take a high polish.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its hardness (cannot be scratched by a steel knife) and the distinctive 'pistachio green' color of the epidote against the red/brown jasper matrix. Often found in areas of historic volcanic activity.
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