sedimentary
Snakeskin Jasper
Microcrystalline Quartz (SiO2) with iron inclusions
Hardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs); Color: Gray, tan, and reddish-brown with scale-like patterns; Luster: Vitreous to waxy (when polished); Structure: Trigonal (microcrystalline); Cleavage: None.
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Gray, tan, and reddish-brown with scale-like patterns
- Luster
- Vitreous to waxy (when polished)
Identified More sedimentary →
Explore Snakeskin 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); Color: Gray, tan, and reddish-brown with scale-like patterns; Luster: Vitreous to waxy (when polished); Structure: Trigonal (microcrystalline); Cleavage: None.
Formation & geological history
Formed primarily in Western Australia as a sedimentary rock where silica-rich fluids permeated older rock layers, depositing microcrystalline quartz in distinct, scale-like bands over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Used extensively in jewelry as cabochons, beads, and pendants, and as a decorative stone for carving and collection.
Geological facts
The 'snakeskin' pattern is a result of chemical processes during formation that create a distinctive texture reminiscent of reptilian scales rather than actual fossilized skin.
Field identification & locations
Identify by the unique rounded, interlocking 'scale' patterns and high hardness; it is commonly sourced from the Windierilla Station area of Western Australia.
More like this
Other sedimentary specimens
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Cone-in-cone structure (Limestone)
Cone-in-cone structure (Secondary Sedimentary Structure)
sedimentary
Chert Breccia
Brecciated Chert (Microcrystalline Silica)
sedimentary
Sandstone Grain
Clastic Sedimentary Rock Grain (SiO2 dominated)
sedimentary
Shale or Slaty Mudstone
Argillaceous sedimentary rock
sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite (primarily SiO2)
sedimentary