mineral

Red jasper

Microcrystalline quartz (chalcedony), SiO₂, colored mainly by iron oxides

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Opaque brick-red to reddish-brown, with dark mottling and a waxy-to-dull luster; hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs, no cleavage, conchoidal fracture, and specific gravity around 2.6. The piece appears tumbled or roughly polished, with surface reflections possibly from a coating or moisture.

Identified August 20, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms when silica-rich groundwater fills cavities or replaces sedimentary and volcanic rocks, while hematite/goethite produce the red color. Jasper deposits range from Precambrian to recent, commonly occurring in volcanic terrains and sedimentary iron-rich layers.

Uses & applications

Used for cabochons, beads, carvings, ornamental objects, and inexpensive lapidary material; occasionally used decoratively in slabs and tiles.

Geological facts

Jasper is a dense, opaque variety of chalcedony rather than a single mineral species. Brecciated, orbicular, and ocean jasper are notable jasper varieties.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by its opaque red color, iron-oxide mottling, glassy/conchoidal fracture, and resistance to scratching; it should not be scratched by a steel knife. Common sources include India, Madagascar, Brazil, Australia, and the western United States.