sedimentary
Red Jasper
Silicon Dioxide with Iron Oxide inclusions (SiO2)
Hardness: 6.5-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Brick red to deep brownish red; Luster: Vitreous to dull/waxy; Fracture: Conchoidal; Structure: Microcrystalline/Cryptocrystalline quartz; Specific Gravity: 2.58-2.91
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Brick red to deep brownish red
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull/waxy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Brick red to deep brownish red; Luster: Vitreous to dull/waxy; Fracture: Conchoidal; Structure: Microcrystalline/Cryptocrystalline quartz; Specific Gravity: 2.58-2.91
Formation & geological history
Formed when fine microcrystalline silica precipitates from volcanic thermal fluids or groundwater in sedimentary and igneous rocks, colored red by micro-inclusions of hematite or iron oxides.
Uses & applications
Used extensively for lapidary arts, cabochons, carved ornaments, tumbled gemstones, and decorative beads.
Geological facts
Red jasper has been used since ancient times for seals, amulets, and stone tools due to its fine-grained structure, hardness, and smooth conchoidal fracture.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinctive opaque red color, hardness that easily scratches steel, and smooth conchoidal fracture surface. Commonly found in gravel beds, stream deposits, and volcanic terrains worldwide.
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