mineral

Red Jasper

Silicon dioxide (SiO2) with iron oxide impurities

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs scale), Color: brick red to brownish red, Luster: vitreous to waxy, Crystal Structure: Trigonal (microcrystalline), Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture, Specific Gravity: 2.58-2.91

Hardness: 6

Identified January 27, 2026More mineral →

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 via the deposition of silica from hydrothermal solutions or volcanic ash into sedimentary environments; red color arises from iron inclusions (hematite). Many specimens date from the Precambrian or later eras.

Uses & applications

Extensively used in lapidary work, jewelry (beads, cabochons), ornamental seals, and as a component in construction aggregates or architectural decoration.

Geological facts

Known as the 'Supreme Nurturer' in metaphysical traditions, Red Jasper has been used since antiquity; it was notably mentioned in biblical texts as part of the Breastplate of Aaron.

Field identification & locations

Identified in the field by its opaque brick-red color, extreme hardness (scratched by steel only with difficulty), and smooth river-worn texture when found in alluvial deposits. Common in areas of volcanic activity or ancient seabed deposits.

Other mineral specimens

See all

Gneiss or Schist

Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet

Metamorphic

Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Tumbled granite

Granite, a coarse-grained felsic intrusive igneous rock

igneous

Epidote

Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)

metamorphic

Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz

Igneous Pegmatite

igneous

Granite

Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)

igneous