Rock Identifier
Jasper (likely Polychrome or Mookaite variants) (Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with iron oxide and hydroxide inclusions) — sedimentary (chemically precipitated)
sedimentary (chemically precipitated)

Jasper (likely Polychrome or Mookaite variants)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with iron oxide and hydroxide inclusions

Hardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs); Color: Multi-colored banding including red, yellow, and brown; Luster: Dull to vitreous, waxy when polished; Crystal structure: Microcrystalline/Cryptocrystalline; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.58-2.91

Hardness
6
Color
Multi-colored banding including red, yellow, and brown
Luster
Dull to vitreous, waxy when polished
Identified More sedimentary (chemically precipitated) →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs); Color: Multi-colored banding including red, yellow, and brown; Luster: Dull to vitreous, waxy when polished; Crystal structure: Microcrystalline/Cryptocrystalline; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.58-2.91

Formation & geological history

Formed through the precipitation of silica from mineral-rich waters in hydrothermal veins or sedimentary environments. These often date back to the Proterozoic or Cretaceous eras, depending on the specific deposit.

Uses & applications

Commonly used in lapidary work for cabochons, beads, and ornamental carvings. Historically used for tool making and as a gemstone for jewelry.

Geological facts

Jasper is an opaque variety of chalcedony. The name 'Jasper' is derived from the Greek word 'iaspis', meaning spotted stone. It is often found as a secondary mineral in volcanic ash or as nodules in sediment.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its hardness (cannot be scratched by steel), opaque nature, and smooth waxy feel when polished. Commonly found in Western Australia, Madagascar, and the United States (Oregon/Idaho). Collect tumbled stones from riverbeds or desert flats.

More like this

Other sedimentary (chemically precipitated) specimens

Jasper (specifically Bloodstone or Heliotrope variety) (Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with iron oxide inclusions) — sedimentary (chemically precipitated)

Jasper (specifically Bloodstone or Heliotrope variety)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with iron oxide inclusions

sedimentary (chemically precipitated)
Banded Calcite (Mexican Onyx) (Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3)) — mineral

Banded Calcite (Mexican Onyx)

Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3)

mineral
Jasper (likely Polychrome or Desert Jasper) (Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with impurities) — sedimentary (chemically precipitated mineral)

Jasper (likely Polychrome or Desert Jasper)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with impurities

sedimentary (chemically precipitated mineral)
Jasper (with orbicular/unakitoid tendencies) (Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with iron and epidote inclusions) — sedimentary (chemically precipitated) or metamorphic

Jasper (with orbicular/unakitoid tendencies)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with iron and epidote inclusions

sedimentary (chemically precipitated) or metamorphic
Jasper (likely a variety of Yellow or Mustard Jasper) (Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) - Microcrystalline Quartz) — sedimentary (chemically precipitated mineral)

Jasper (likely a variety of Yellow or Mustard Jasper)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) - Microcrystalline Quartz

sedimentary (chemically precipitated mineral)
Bumblebee Jasper (technically a type of Agate/Anhydrite) (Calcite and Anhydrite with inclusions of Realgar and Orpiment (As2S3)) — sedimentary

Bumblebee Jasper (technically a type of Agate/Anhydrite)

Calcite and Anhydrite with inclusions of Realgar and Orpiment (As2S3)

sedimentary