sedimentary
Red Jasper
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Iron Oxide inclusions
Hardness 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale. Brick red to terracotta brown color due to iron contents, dull to earthy or sub-vitreous luster, microcrystalline quartz structure with conchoidal fracture.
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 to 7 on the Mohs scale. Brick red to terracotta brown color due to iron contents, dull to earthy or sub-vitreous luster, microcrystalline quartz structure with conchoidal fracture.
Formation & geological history
Formed when microcrystalline silica solutions rich in iron oxides permeate volcanic ash, sediment, or hydrothermal veins, solidifying over time into microcrystalline chalcedony.
Uses & applications
Widely used in lapidary arts, jewelry making (cabochons, beads), decorative carvings, tumbling, and metaphysical stone collecting.
Geological facts
Red jasper has been used since ancient times in amulets and signet rings. Its distinct deep red coloration comes from hematite impurities finely distributed throughout the quartz matrix.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its rich opaque red-brown color, fine grain (no visible crystals to the naked eye), and high hardness (scratches glass). Common in quartz-rich sedimentary deposits and ancient volcanic regions worldwide.
More like this
Other sedimentary specimens
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Sedimentary Sandstone
Arenite (Sedimentary Rock)
sedimentary
Fossiliferous Concretion
Septarian Concretion containing Brachiopods/Crinoids
fossil
Shale
Shale (clastic sedimentary rock)
sedimentary
Shale
Argillaceous sedimentary rock
sedimentary
Mudstone
Argillite / Siliciclastic sedimentary rock
sedimentary