sedimentary
Red Jasper
Jasper (SiO2, Silicon Dioxide with Iron inclusions)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs scale); Color: Brick red to brownish-red with occasional white or black streaks; Luster: Dull to Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (Microcrystalline); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.58-2.91
- Hardness
- 6
- Luster
- Dull to Vitreous (glassy)
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: 6.5-7 (Mohs scale); Color: Brick red to brownish-red with occasional white or black streaks; Luster: Dull to Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (Microcrystalline); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.58-2.91
Formation & geological history
Formed via the deposition of silica from water or hydrothermal fluids, typically in cracks of volcanic rocks or sedimentary environments. Iron oxides precipitate during the process, giving the stone its characteristic red color.
Uses & applications
Primarily used in jewelry (beads, cabochons), carvings, and ornamental objects. Highly valued by collectors for its patterns and by some groups for its supposed metaphysical properties of stamina and grounding.
Geological facts
Red Jasper was a favorite in the ancient world; it is mentioned in the Bible as one of the stones in the High Priest's Breastplate and was used in ancient Egypt for amulets and protective jewelry.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its deep red, opaque appearance and high resistance to scratching (it will scratch glass but not steel). Common locations include India, Brazil, Madagascar, and the Southwestern United States.
More like this
Other sedimentary specimens
Fossiliferous Sedimentary Rock
Sedimentary limestone with invertebrate fossil imprint
fossil
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Quartz pebble
Silicon dioxide (SiO2)
sedimentary
Generic Pebble / Rock Fragment
Lithic fragment / Weathered rock
sedimentary
Sedimentary Sandstone
Arenite (Sedimentary Rock)
sedimentary
Shale (or Mudstone/Siltstone)
Sedimentary Mudrock (SiO2, Al2O3 base with clay minerals)
sedimentary