sedimentary
Tumbled Jasper and Tiger's Eye
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with iron oxide inclusions
Hardness: 6.5-7 Mohs; Color: Red, brown, yellow-brown; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Texture: Cryptocrystalline; Streak: White
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Red, brown, yellow-brown
- Luster
- Vitreous to waxy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5-7 Mohs; Color: Red, brown, yellow-brown; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Texture: Cryptocrystalline; Streak: White
Formation & geological history
Formed from silica-rich fluids precipitating in voids or replacing organic material. Often associated with volcanic ash or sedimentary deposits reaching back to the Precambrian era.
Uses & applications
Primarily used for lapidary work, jewelry, pocket stones, and decorative carvings.
Geological facts
Red jasper gets its color from iron inclusions. Tiger's eye is a pseudomorph of quartz after fibrous crocidolite, which creates its chatoyant 'eye' effect.
Field identification & locations
Identify by high hardness (cannot be scratched by a steel blade), opaque nature, and smooth, glass-like finish when tumbled. Found globally in India, South Africa, and the USA.
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