sedimentary
Yellow Jasper
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with iron oxide inclusions
Hardness: 6.5-7 on Mohs scale; Color: mustard yellow to brownish-yellow; Luster: dull to waxy; Crystal Structure: microcrystalline trigonal (chalcedony/quartz); Cleavage: none, conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.58-2.91
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- mustard yellow to brownish-yellow
- 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 on Mohs scale; Color: mustard yellow to brownish-yellow; Luster: dull to waxy; Crystal Structure: microcrystalline trigonal (chalcedony/quartz); Cleavage: none, conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.58-2.91
Formation & geological history
Formed when microcrystalline quartz precipitates from silica-rich fluids in sedimentary or low-grade metamorphic environments, gaining its yellow pigmentation from fine inclusions of goethite or iron oxide.
Uses & applications
Used for lapidary work, decorative cabochons, tumbled stones, jewelry, and metaphysical collections.
Geological facts
Yellow Jasper has been used since antiquity in ancient seal rings and ornamental carvings. Its yellow hue is caused by goethite and limonite inclusions within the cryptocrystalline quartz matrix.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its smooth water-worn texture, opaque yellow color, and inability to be scratched by a steel pocketknife (hardness ~7). Commonly found in stream beds, gravel deposits, and coastal beaches globally.
More like this
Other sedimentary specimens
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Sedimentary Sandstone
Arenite (Sedimentary Rock)
sedimentary
Fossiliferous Concretion
Septarian Concretion containing Brachiopods/Crinoids
fossil
Banded Siltstone / Mudstone Pebble
Siltstone / Argillite
sedimentary
Shale
Shale (clastic sedimentary rock)
sedimentary
Shale
Sedimentary Shale
sedimentary