mineral
Yellow Jasper / Chalcedony
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with iron inclusions
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 6.5-7 Mohs scale. Color: Opaque to translucent brownish-yellow. Luster: Vitreous to waxy. Crystal structure: Trigonal/Microcrystalline. Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific Gravity: 2.58–2.91.
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Opaque to translucent brownish-yellow
- Luster
- Vitreous to waxy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5-7 Mohs scale. Color: Opaque to translucent brownish-yellow. Luster: Vitreous to waxy. Crystal structure: Trigonal/Microcrystalline. Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific Gravity: 2.58–2.91.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the deposition of silica-rich hydrothermal fluids in volcanic or sedimentary rock cavities. It is often found as secondary deposits in riverbeds or coastal environments.
Uses & applications
Used primarily in lapidary work, jewelry (beads and cabochons), ornamental carvings, and as a popular specimen for rock tumbling and crystal collecting.
Geological facts
Yellow Jasper was historically known as a 'protective stone' in ancient cultures. It gets its distinct yellow-brown hue from the presence of iron oxide (goethite) within the microcrystalline quartz structure.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its waxy luster, lack of cleavage, and extreme hardness (it will scratch glass). Commonly found in river gravels and beaches in regions with volcanic history or ancient sedimentary basins.
