mineral
Red Jasper (or Agate/Jasper mixture)
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Iron Oxide inclusions
Hardness: 6.5-7 on the Mohs scale. Color: Deep red, reddish-brown with yellowish and dark inclusions. Luster: Vitreous to waxy/greasy (appears wet or semi-polished). Crystal structure: Trigonal (microcrystalline/cryptocrystalline quartz). Cleavage: None, exhibits conchoidal fracture.
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Deep red, reddish-brown with yellowish and dark inclusions
- Luster
- Vitreous to waxy/greasy (appears wet or semi-polished)
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5-7 on the Mohs scale. Color: Deep red, reddish-brown with yellowish and dark inclusions. Luster: Vitreous to waxy/greasy (appears wet or semi-polished). Crystal structure: Trigonal (microcrystalline/cryptocrystalline quartz). Cleavage: None, exhibits conchoidal fracture.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the deposition of silica-rich solutions filling cavities, veins, or sedimentary layers within volcanic or sedimentary rock environments, colored red by micro-inclusions of hematite and iron oxides.
Uses & applications
Popular as a gemstone for jewelry, cabochons, carved ornaments, tumbled stones, lapidary projects, and ornamental collections.
Geological facts
Jasper has been used as a gemstone and decorative stone since ancient times, mentioned in historical texts from ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome. Red jasper's distinct color comes from finely dispersed iron oxide throughout the microcrystalline quartz network.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its waxy luster, hardness (scratches glass easily), opaque red to multicolored earthy tone, and smooth conchoidal fractures. Commonly found in riverbeds, gravel deposits, and volcanic terrains in places like the USA, Brazil, South Africa, India, and Madagascar.
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