sedimentary
Red Jasper
Microcrystalline Quartz (Chalcedony), SiO2
Hardness: 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale. Color: Red, reddish-brown, brownish-red due to iron oxide impurities. Luster: Vitreous to dull. Crystal structure: Trigonal (microcrystalline, cryptocrystalline aggregates). Cleavage: None, exhibits conchoidal fracture. Specific Gravity: 2.58 to 2.91.
- Hardness
- 6
- 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 to 7 on the Mohs scale. Color: Red, reddish-brown, brownish-red due to iron oxide impurities. Luster: Vitreous to dull. Crystal structure: Trigonal (microcrystalline, cryptocrystalline aggregates). Cleavage: None, exhibits conchoidal fracture. Specific Gravity: 2.58 to 2.91.
Formation & geological history
Formed in silica-rich aqueous environments, often through the precipitation of silica in marine sediments or volcanic ash beds, heavily pigmented by iron oxides during diagenesis.
Uses & applications
Used for making cabochons, beads, ornamental carvings, polished display stones, and in lapidary arts.
Geological facts
Red Jasper has been used since ancient times for talismans, seals, and jewelry. Ancient Egyptians carved amulets from it and associated it with the girdle of Isis.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its opaque red color, waxy-to-dull luster, conchoidal fracture, and hardness that scratches glass. Found worldwide, notably in India, Brazil, Russia, and the USA.
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
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