sedimentary

Picture Jasper

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with iron oxide and organic impurities

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 6.5-7.0 (Mohs); Color: Tan, brown, and cream with darker branching patterns; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Structure: Microcrystalline/cryptocrystalline; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.58-2.91

Hardness: 6
Color: Tan, brown, and cream with darker branching patterns
Luster: Vitreous to waxy

Identified May 29, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed from silica-rich fluids (often volcanic ash) petrifying within sedimentary rock layers, creating unique patterns over millions of years through chemical precipitation.

Uses & applications

Used primarily in lapidary work, jewelry (beads, cabochons), carvings, and as a popular meditation or collector stone due to its scenic patterns.

Geological facts

The patterns in Picture Jasper are often thought to resemble landscapes, deserts, or woods. Each piece is unique, essentially acting as a naturally frozen 'photograph' of geological history.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its 'opaque' nature and landscape-like dendritic or banded patterns. It is commonly found in Idaho and Oregon (specifically the Owyhee region) in the USA.