sedimentary
Red Jasper
Silicon dioxide with iron inclusions (Quartz variety, SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectMohs hardness of 6.5 to 7; earthy red to brownish-red color; opaque with a waxy to dull luster; microcrystalline quartz structure with no visible cleavage.
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
Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7; earthy red to brownish-red color; opaque with a waxy to dull luster; microcrystalline quartz structure with no visible cleavage.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the hydrothermal alteration of silica-rich sediments or volcanic ash, heavily pigmented by iron oxide, often dating from the Precambrian to Paleozoic eras.
Uses & applications
Commonly used for ornamental carvings, polished cabochons in jewelry, and metaphysical crystal collections.
Geological facts
Red jasper has been used since ancient times for talismans and signet rings due to its durability and rich color.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified in the field by its distinct reddish opaque appearance, conchoidal fracture, and inability to be scratched by a steel blade. Found globally in riverbeds and ancient sedimentary deposits.
More like this
Other sedimentary specimens
Fossil-bearing concretion, possibly containing a fossil shell or other organic inclusion
Calcareous concretion; exact fossil and host-rock composition are not identifiable from the image
fossil
Fossiliferous Sedimentary Rock
Sedimentary limestone with invertebrate fossil imprint
fossil
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite
sedimentary
Shale
Shale (clastic sedimentary rock)
sedimentary
Shale (or Mudstone/Siltstone)
Sedimentary Mudrock (SiO2, Al2O3 base with clay minerals)
sedimentary