sedimentary
Red Jasper
SiO2 (Silicon Dioxide) with Iron Oxide inclusions
Hardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs). Color: Brick red to brownish-red. Luster: Vitreous to dull. Crystal structure: Microcrystalline (Trigonal/Hexagonal). Cleavage: None. Specific Gravity: 2.58-2.91.
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Brick red to brownish-red
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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 (Mohs). Color: Brick red to brownish-red. Luster: Vitreous to dull. Crystal structure: Microcrystalline (Trigonal/Hexagonal). Cleavage: None. Specific Gravity: 2.58-2.91.
Formation & geological history
Forms through the infiltration of silica-rich waters into sedimentary or volcanic rock beds, often in deep sea environments. The red color is caused by the inclusion of hematite (iron oxide).
Uses & applications
Used extensively in lapidary arts for cabochons, beads, and carvings, and historically used for seals and jewelry. Also used as a decorative stone in landscaping.
Geological facts
Red Jasper has been used since antiquity; it was known as the 'blood of the Earth' and was featured in the breastplate of the High Priest in Biblical times. It is a variety of chalcedony.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its bright red color, high hardness (cannot be scratched by a steel knife), and its characteristic smooth, waxy feel when wet or polished. Often found in pebble beds of rivers or coastal areas.
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
Sandstone Grain
Clastic Sedimentary Rock Grain (SiO2 dominated)
sedimentary
Chert Breccia
Brecciated Chert (Microcrystalline Silica)
sedimentary
Shale or Slaty Mudstone
Argillaceous sedimentary rock
sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite (primarily SiO2)
sedimentary