sedimentary
Yellow Jasper
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs scale); Color: Mustard yellow to tan with swirling bands; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Structure: Microcrystalline quartz; Cleavage: None; Opaque.
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Mustard yellow to tan with swirling bands
- 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: Mustard yellow to tan with swirling bands; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Structure: Microcrystalline quartz; Cleavage: None; Opaque.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the deposition of silica from volcanic ash or water in sedimentary environments, often associated with iron oxide inclusions that provide the yellow color. It can form in various geological ages.
Uses & applications
Primarily used as a decorative stone, in jewelry (cabochons), lapidary art, and as a pocket stone for collectors due to its smooth polished finish.
Geological facts
Jasper is known as the 'Supreme Nurturer' in metaphysical circles. The yellow variety specifically gets its hue from Goethite or Limonite inclusions.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its opacity (unlike translucent agate) and its hardness which prevents it from being scratched by a steel blade. Commonly found in riverbeds or desert regions globally, notably India and Africa.
More like this
Other sedimentary specimens
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Brown Sandstone (River Rock)
Arenite
sedimentary
Mudstone
Argillite / Siliciclastic sedimentary rock
sedimentary
Cone-in-cone structure (Limestone)
Cone-in-cone structure (Secondary Sedimentary Structure)
sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite (primarily SiO2)
sedimentary
Sandstone Grain
Clastic Sedimentary Rock Grain (SiO2 dominated)
sedimentary