sedimentary

Red Jasper

Silicon Dioxide (Microcrystalline Quartz), SiO2

Hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, opaque reddish-brown to brick-red color due to iron oxide inclusions, waxy to vitreous luster, microcrystalline (cryptocrystalline) crystal structure, conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage, specific gravity of 2.58 to 2.91.

Identified July 31, 2026More sedimentary →

Explore Red Jasper 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

Formed through the hydrothermal deposition of silica-rich fluids or precipitation from silica-rich marine waters, often accumulating on ocean floors alongside iron-rich sedimentary deposits. Geological age varies widely depending on the deposit, ranging from Precambrian banded iron formations to younger hydrothermal veins.

Uses & applications

Widely used for tumbled stones, cabochons, carvings, ornamental objects, beads, and metaphysical crystal healing practices.

Geological facts

Jasper has been prized since ancient times as a sacred and protective stone, famously used by ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans for talismans, seals, and signet rings.

Field identification & locations

Easily identified by its deep reddish-brown opaque appearance and waxy polish. It does not scratch with a steel knife due to its high quartz hardness. Found worldwide, with major deposits in India, Brazil, Russia, Australia, and the United States.

Other sedimentary specimens

See all

Sandstone or Siltstone

Arenite (if sandstone)

Sedimentary

Sedimentary Sandstone

Arenite (Sedimentary Rock)

sedimentary

Fossiliferous Concretion

Septarian Concretion containing Brachiopods/Crinoids

fossil

Banded Siltstone / Mudstone Pebble

Siltstone / Argillite

sedimentary

Shale (or Mudstone/Siltstone)

Sedimentary Mudrock (SiO2, Al2O3 base with clay minerals)

sedimentary

Shale

Shale (clastic sedimentary rock)

sedimentary