sedimentary
Red Jasper
Microcrystalline Quartz (Chalcedony), SiO2
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 6.5-7 on the Mohs scale, Color: Red to reddish-brown due to iron inclusions, Luster: Vitreous to dull, Crystal Structure: Trigonal (microcrystalline), Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.58-2.91
- Hardness
- 6
Identified More sedimentary →
Explore Red Jasper in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5-7 on the Mohs scale, Color: Red to reddish-brown due to iron inclusions, Luster: Vitreous to dull, Crystal Structure: Trigonal (microcrystalline), Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.58-2.91
Formation & geological history
Forms in sedimentary environments through the silica-rich precipitation in marine or lacustrine settings, often associated with volcanic activity or iron-rich hydrothermal fluids.
Uses & applications
Used in ornamental carvings, cabochons, jewelry, and as a collector's mineral specimen.
Geological facts
Red jasper has been used since ancient times for seals, signet rings, and talismans, and is frequently mentioned in ancient lapidary texts.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its opaque red color, waxy luster, and conchoidal fracture. Found worldwide, notably in India, Brazil, Russia, and the USA.
More like this
Other sedimentary specimens
Fossiliferous Sedimentary Rock
Sedimentary limestone with invertebrate fossil imprint
fossil
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite
sedimentary
Quartz pebble
Silicon dioxide (SiO2)
sedimentary
Shale
Shale (clastic sedimentary rock)
sedimentary
Shale (or Mudstone/Siltstone)
Sedimentary Mudrock (SiO2, Al2O3 base with clay minerals)
sedimentary