sedimentary
Yellow Jasper
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with iron oxide inclusions
Hardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs scale); Color: Yellow/ochre with brownish banding; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal Structure: Microcrystalline (trigonal); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.6-2.7
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Yellow/ochre with brownish banding
- Luster
- Vitreous to waxy
Identified More sedimentary →
Explore Yellow 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 scale); Color: Yellow/ochre with brownish banding; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal Structure: Microcrystalline (trigonal); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.6-2.7
Formation & geological history
Formed via the accumulation of silica-rich fluids in volcanic ash or sedimentary deposits, often during the Precambrian to Paleozoic eras. The yellow color is derived from goethite or other iron hydroxide inclusions.
Uses & applications
Primarily used as a gemstone for jewelry (cabochons), ornamental carvings, and by collectors for its aesthetic patterns. Historically used for making tools due to its conchoidal fracture.
Geological facts
Yellow Jasper was historically known as a stone of protection and discernment. It is a variety of chalcedony that is opaque due to high mineral impurities.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its opacity, smooth waxy texture when polished, and characteristic banding. Often found in riverbeds or desert regions globally, notably in South Africa, India, and the USA. Collectors look for unique parallel banding.
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