sedimentary
Red Jasper (Quartz)
SiO2 (Silicon Dioxide with Iron Oxide inclusions)
Hardness: 6.5 - 7 on Mohs scale. Color: Reddish-brown to orange-red with earthy or dark patches. Luster: Dull to waxy/vitreous. Fracture: Conchoidal. Structure: Microcrystalline aggregate.
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Reddish-brown to orange-red with earthy or dark patches
- Luster
- Dull to waxy/vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5 - 7 on Mohs scale. Color: Reddish-brown to orange-red with earthy or dark patches. Luster: Dull to waxy/vitreous. Fracture: Conchoidal. Structure: Microcrystalline aggregate.
Formation & geological history
Formed when fine silica-rich sediments or volcanic ash beds were infiltrated by mineralizing fluids rich in iron oxides, hardening over millions of years into dense microcrystalline quartz.
Uses & applications
Used widely for lapidary arts, decorative landscaping rocks, tumbled stones, beads, and cabochon jewelry.
Geological facts
Red jasper gets its rich reddish-brown color from fine particles of hematite or iron oxides distributed throughout the quartz matrix. It has been used for thousands of years in ancient seals, amulets, and carvings.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its microcrystalline hardness (cannot be scratched by a copper penny or steel nail easily), smooth water-worn surface, conchoidal fracture edges, and distinctive reddish-brown color. Common in riverbeds, glacial deposits, and sedimentary regions worldwide.
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