
sedimentary
Riverstone Jasper (Chert variant)
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with impurities
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 6.5-7 on Mohs scale. Color: Muted olive green, brown, and black. Luster: Waxy to dull. Crystal structure: Microcrystalline (trigonal). Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific Gravity: 2.5-2.9.
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Muted olive green, brown, and black
- Luster
- Waxy to dull
Identified More sedimentary →
Explore Riverstone Jasper (Chert variant) in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5-7 on Mohs scale. Color: Muted olive green, brown, and black. Luster: Waxy to dull. Crystal structure: Microcrystalline (trigonal). Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific Gravity: 2.5-2.9.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the accumulation of microcrystalline quartz or radiolarian remains in marine environments, subsequently subjected to tumble-polishing in river beds over thousands of years.
Uses & applications
Commonly used for decorative landscaping, jewelry (beads and cabochons), and as smooth 'worry stones' in holistic practices.
Geological facts
Jasper is an opaque variety of chalcedony. The specific coloration in this specimen is likely due to high iron or chlorite content trapped during the depositional process.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its high hardness (it cannot be scratched by a steel knife), smooth water-worn texture, and lack of visible grains. Frequently found in stream beds and coastal gravel deposits.
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