sedimentary

Red Jasper

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Hematite inclusions

Hardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs); Color: Deep brick red to brownish-red; Luster: Dull/Waxy (Raw) to Vitreous (Polished); Structure: Microcrystalline/Cryptocrystalline; Cleavage: None (Conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.58-2.91

Hardness: 6
Color: Deep brick red to brownish-red
Luster: Dull/Waxy (Raw) to Vitreous (Polished)

Identified July 9, 2026More sedimentary →

Explore Red Jasper in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed from the deposition of silica in hydrothermal veins or as sedimentary deposits where iron oxide (Hematite) is present to provide the red coloration. Often found in association with volcanic ash or ancient sea beds.

Uses & applications

Used primarily for jewelry, lapidary arts, ornamental carvings, and 'healing' stone collections. Historically used for making tools due to its conchoidal fracturing.

Geological facts

Jasper was a favorite gem in the ancient world; its name can be traced back in Arabic, Persian, Greek, and Latin. It is often referred to as the 'Supreme Nurturer'.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its opaque red color, high hardness (cannot be scratched by a steel knife), and smooth, shell-like fracture surfaces. Frequently found in riverbeds or desert regions globally.

Other sedimentary specimens

See all

Sandstone or Siltstone

Arenite (if sandstone)

Sedimentary

Mudstone

Argillite / Siliciclastic sedimentary rock

sedimentary

Cone-in-cone structure (Limestone)

Cone-in-cone structure (Secondary Sedimentary Structure)

sedimentary

Brown Sandstone (River Rock)

Arenite

sedimentary

Sandstone Grain

Clastic Sedimentary Rock Grain (SiO2 dominated)

sedimentary

Chert Breccia

Brecciated Chert (Microcrystalline Silica)

sedimentary