sedimentary
Red Jasper (with Hematite inclusions)
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Iron Oxide (Fe2O3)
Hardness: 6.5-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Deep red, maroon, with yellow/black streaks; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Crystal Structure: Microcrystalline; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.58–2.91
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Deep red, maroon, with yellow/black streaks
- Luster
- Dull to vitreous
Identified More sedimentary →
Explore Red Jasper (with Hematite inclusions) in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Deep red, maroon, with yellow/black streaks; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Crystal Structure: Microcrystalline; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.58–2.91
Formation & geological history
Formed through the infiltration and precipitation of silica in volcanic or sedimentary environments, often occurring as nodules or in cracks. The red color is caused by the oxidation of iron (hematite) during formation.
Uses & applications
Used primarily for lapidary work, jewelry (cabs, beads), healing stones, and decorative garden rock.
Geological facts
Jasper has been used since ancient times for amulets and carvings. It is known as the 'supreme nurturer' in metaphysical circles. Many huge deposits are found in Precambrian banded iron formations.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its hardness (cannot be scratched by a steel knife), opaque red appearance, and conchoidal fracture. Found worldwide, notably in the USA (Oregon, California), Brazil, and South Africa.
More like this
Other sedimentary specimens
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Cone-in-cone structure (Limestone)
Cone-in-cone structure (Secondary Sedimentary Structure)
sedimentary
Chert Breccia
Brecciated Chert (Microcrystalline Silica)
sedimentary
Sandstone Grain
Clastic Sedimentary Rock Grain (SiO2 dominated)
sedimentary
Shale or Slaty Mudstone
Argillaceous sedimentary rock
sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite (primarily SiO2)
sedimentary