metamorphic
Orange Quartzite (or Yellow Jasper / Carnelian Chalcedony)
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 6.5-7 on the Mohs scale; Color: Orange, honey-yellow, to reddish-brown; Luster: Waxy to vitreous; Crystal Structure: Trigonal (microcrystalline/cryptocrystalline); Cleavage: None, exhibits conchoidal or uneven fracture; Specific Gravity: ~2.65.
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Orange, honey-yellow, to reddish-brown
- Luster
- Waxy to vitreous
Identified More metamorphic →
Explore Orange Quartzite (or Yellow Jasper / Carnelian Chalcedony) in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5-7 on the Mohs scale; Color: Orange, honey-yellow, to reddish-brown; Luster: Waxy to vitreous; Crystal Structure: Trigonal (microcrystalline/cryptocrystalline); Cleavage: None, exhibits conchoidal or uneven fracture; Specific Gravity: ~2.65.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the regional metamorphism of quartz-rich sandstone, or as a cryptocrystalline silica deposit in sedimentary and volcanic environments enriched with iron oxide impurities that produce the distinct orange hue.
Uses & applications
Popular for lapidary work, cabochons, tumbled stones, decorative carvings, and energy/healing crystal collections.
Geological facts
Orange quartzites and jaspers derive their warm reddish-orange coloration from fine trace inclusions of hematite or goethite (iron oxides) dispersed within the silica matrix.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its high hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, waxy to sugary granular fracture surface, and orange to yellow-brown color. Commonly found in river beds, gravel deposits, and metamorphic terrains worldwide including Brazil, Madagascar, India, and the United States.
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