mineral
Red Jasper (Jasper)
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with iron oxide inclusions
Hardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs scale), Color: Brick red to brownish-red with yellow/black banding, Luster: Vitreous to waxy, Crystal Structure: Microcrystalline/hexagonal, Cleavage: None (Conchoidal fracture)
- Hardness
- 6
Identified More mineral →
Explore Red Jasper (Jasper) in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs scale), Color: Brick red to brownish-red with yellow/black banding, Luster: Vitreous to waxy, Crystal Structure: Microcrystalline/hexagonal, Cleavage: None (Conchoidal fracture)
Formation & geological history
Formed through the deposition of silica from hydrothermal solutions or volcanic ash in sedimentary or volcanic environments; often associated with iron-rich deposits.
Uses & applications
Used primarily for jewelry (cabochons, beads), decorative carvings, lapidary arts, and as a gemstone for collectors.
Geological facts
Jasper is an opaque variety of chalcedony. The red color is caused by iron (hematite) inclusions. It has been used for seals and amulets since antiquity, including in Minoan Crete and ancient Egypt.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its opacity (even when held to light), high hardness (scratches glass), and smooth, waxy surface when wet or polished. Often found in riverbeds or coastal gravels.
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock
Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)
Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)
Metamorphic Rock