sedimentary
Red Jasper
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with iron oxide inclusions
Hardness: 6.5-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Terracotta red to deep brick red; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Crystal Structure: Microcrystalline/Cryptocrystalline; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.58-2.91
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Terracotta red to deep brick red
- Luster
- Dull to vitreous
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 Mohs scale; Color: Terracotta red to deep brick red; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Crystal Structure: Microcrystalline/Cryptocrystalline; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.58-2.91
Formation & geological history
Formed through the infiltration of silica in sedimentary or volcanic rock, where iron oxide (hematite) provides the red color. Often associated with ancient sea beds or volcanic hydrothermal activity.
Uses & applications
Used primarily in lapidary work for jewelry (cabochons, beads), decorative carvings, and as a healing stone in metaphysical communities.
Geological facts
Red Jasper has been used for thousands of years; it was known as a stone of protection and was often used in the seals of ancient civilizations and on the breastplates of high priests.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its opaque red color, extreme hardness (will scratch glass), and smooth, waxy feel when polished. Commonly found in riverbeds or dry desert washes in areas with high silica content.
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