mineral

Red jasper (likely polished/chipped fragment)

Jasper, microcrystalline quartz (SiO₂) colored mainly by iron oxides

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Opaque brick-red to brown, earthy/waxy luster, cryptocrystalline quartz, no visible cleavage; hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs and specific gravity around 2.5–2.7. The sharp faceted shape appears cut or naturally fractured rather than a crystal form.

Identified August 15, 2026More mineral →

Explore Red jasper (likely polished/chipped fragment) in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms when silica-rich fluids replace or cement volcanic ash, sediments, or altered rock, with iron oxides producing the red color. It can form in many geological ages and environments, commonly in hydrothermal and volcanic settings.

Uses & applications

Used for cabochons, beads, carvings, tumbled stones, ornaments, and occasionally decorative stone; too small here for construction use.

Geological facts

Jasper is a variety of chalcedony/microcrystalline quartz, though “jasper” is a broad trade and geological term. Red coloration commonly reflects hematite or related iron minerals.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by its opaque red-brown color, fine texture, glassy-to-waxy fracture, and resistance to scratching; it should scratch glass but not be scratched by a steel knife. Common sources include India, Brazil, Madagascar, Australia, and the western United States.