sedimentary

Yellow Jasper

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) - variety of Chalcedony

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 6.5 - 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Mustard yellow to golden brown; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal structure: Trigonal (Microcrystalline); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.58 - 2.91

Hardness: 6
Color: Mustard yellow to golden brown
Luster: Vitreous to waxy

Identified March 19, 2026More sedimentary →

Explore Yellow Jasper in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through the deposition of silica into cracks, veins, or sedimentary layers, often during the Jurassic or Cretaceous periods. Its yellow color comes from high iron inclusions (goethite or limonite).

Uses & applications

Commonly used in lapidary work for cabochons, beads, and decorative carvings. Also popular in jewelry, as garden stones, or as metaphysical 'healing' crystals.

Geological facts

Jasper is an opaque variety of chalcedony. Unlike true agate, it is almost always opaque due to the high amount of particulate mineral inclusions (up to 20% of the stone's mass).

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its waxy luster when wet, conchoidal (shell-like) fracture edges, and its ability to scratch glass. Commonly found in riverbeds, desert washes, and coastal areas in regions like Oregon, Madagascar, and South Africa.