sedimentary
Red Jasper
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Hematite inclusions
Hardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs scale); Color: Brick red to brownish red; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Microcrystalline; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.58-2.91
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Brick red to brownish red
- Luster
- Dull to vitreous
Identified More sedimentary →
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; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Microcrystalline; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.58-2.91
Formation & geological history
Formed through the deposition of silica from mineral-rich waters or volcanic ash, often in association with iron oxides that provide the red pigment. It is a microcrystalline variety of quartz.
Uses & applications
Commonly used in jewelry (beads, cabochons), lapidary arts, ornamental carvings, and historical use for seal stones and tools.
Geological facts
Red Jasper was known as a stone of endurance and protection in ancient Egypt and was famously one of the stones in the High Priest's Breastplate mentioned in the Bible.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its opaque red color, high hardness (will scratch glass), and waxy feel when polished. It often features dark streaks or vein-like patterns of hematite or magnetite.
More like this
Other sedimentary specimens
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite (primarily SiO2)
sedimentary
Shale or Slaty Mudstone
Argillaceous sedimentary rock
sedimentary
Chert Breccia
Brecciated Chert (Microcrystalline Silica)
sedimentary
Sandstone (Quartz-rich)
Arenite (SiO2)
sedimentary
Sandstone (with man-made markings)
Arenite (composed primarily of Quartz, SiO2)
sedimentary