
sedimentary
Red Breccia Jasper
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with hematite and various mineral inclusions
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 6.5-7 on the Mohs scale. Color: Red, brown, white, and grayish mottled patterns. Luster: Vitreous to dull. Crystal structure: Trigonal (microcrystalline quartz). Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific gravity: 2.58-2.91.
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Red, brown, white, and grayish mottled patterns
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
Identified More sedimentary →
Explore Red Breccia Jasper in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5-7 on the Mohs scale. Color: Red, brown, white, and grayish mottled patterns. Luster: Vitreous to dull. Crystal structure: Trigonal (microcrystalline quartz). Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific gravity: 2.58-2.91.
Formation & geological history
Formed from fragments of rock (clasts) cemented together by a fine-grained matrix, often rich in iron oxides (hematite), which gives it the characteristic red coloration. Formed in ancient hydrothermal environments or sedimentary basins over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Used primarily for making jewelry, ornamental carvings, polished stones, and lapidary art.
Geological facts
Jasper has been used since ancient times for talismans, seals, and jewelry. The 'brecciated' variety features angular fragments that were naturally broken and then cemented back together by silica.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its opaque nature, hardness, waxy-to-vitreous luster, and distinct multicolored brecciated patterns. Found worldwide including India, Brazil, Russia, and the USA.
More like this
Other sedimentary specimens
Fossiliferous Sedimentary Rock
Sedimentary limestone with invertebrate fossil imprint
fossil
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite
sedimentary
Quartz pebble
Silicon dioxide (SiO2)
sedimentary
Shale
Shale (clastic sedimentary rock)
sedimentary
Shale (or Mudstone/Siltstone)
Sedimentary Mudrock (SiO2, Al2O3 base with clay minerals)
sedimentary