mineral
Red jasper
Jasper, a microcrystalline variety of quartz (SiO₂), colored mainly by iron oxides
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectTypically opaque red, orange, brown, and gray with earthy-to-waxy luster; hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs, no cleavage, cryptocrystalline quartz structure, and specific gravity near 2.6. The specimen appears rough and naturally weathered, with iron-rich mottling.
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Physical properties
Typically opaque red, orange, brown, and gray with earthy-to-waxy luster; hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs, no cleavage, cryptocrystalline quartz structure, and specific gravity near 2.6. The specimen appears rough and naturally weathered, with iron-rich mottling.
Formation & geological history
Forms when silica-rich fluids cement or replace sediments and volcanic material, incorporating hematite or goethite; deposits range from Precambrian to much younger ages. Common settings include iron-rich sedimentary beds, volcanic terrains, and hydrothermal veins.
Uses & applications
Used as an ornamental stone, cabochons, beads, carvings, lapidary material, and occasionally decorative aggregate. It is generally valued for color and pattern rather than rarity.
Geological facts
Jasper is technically a rock composed predominantly of microcrystalline quartz, not a single mineral species. Red coloration is produced by finely dispersed iron oxides.
Field identification & locations
Identify it by its opaque red coloration, glassy-to-waxy broken surfaces, lack of visible cleavage, and inability to scratch it with a steel nail easily; quartz or agate may occur with it. Common sources include India, Brazil, Madagascar, the United States, and Australia.
