sedimentary
Yellow Jasper
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with goethite or iron oxide inclusions
Hardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs scale); Color: Yellow to mustard-brown; Luster: Dull to waxy; Crystal Structure: Microcrystalline (trigonal); Cleavage: None; Fracture: Conchoidal; Specific Gravity: 2.6-2.9.
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Yellow to mustard-brown
- Luster
- Dull 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 to mustard-brown; Luster: Dull to waxy; Crystal Structure: Microcrystalline (trigonal); Cleavage: None; Fracture: Conchoidal; Specific Gravity: 2.6-2.9.
Formation & geological history
Formed from silica-rich precipitates in volcanic or sedimentary environments, where microscopic quartz crystals aggregate with mineral impurities like iron oxides during petrification. It occurs in various geological ages from Precambrian to recent.
Uses & applications
Used primarily in lapidary work for cabochons, beads, and carvings. Also used as a decorative stone in landscaping and popular in metaphysical or crystal healing practices.
Geological facts
Jasper is an opaque variety of chalcedony. The name comes from the Greek word 'iaspis', meaning 'spotted stone'. It is known for its durability and was historically used to make tools and weapons due to its sharp conchoidal fracture.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its waxy luster, opacity (it will not let light pass through like agate), and hardness—it will scratch steel but not be scratched by it. Found worldwide in riverbeds and coastal regions, specifically famous in regions like South Africa and the USA.
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