sedimentary

Picture Jasper

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with impurities

Hardness: 6.5 - 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Tan, brown, gray, and black in landscape-like patterns; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Hexagonal (Microcrystalline); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.58 - 2.91

Hardness: 6
Color: Tan, brown, gray, and black in landscape-like patterns
Luster: Vitreous to dull

Identified March 9, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed as silica-rich fluids permeated through fine-grained sediments or volcanic ash, slowly petrifying and incorporating mineral oxides (like iron and manganese) that create the banded 'picture' designs. They typically date back to the Cenozoic era.

Uses & applications

Used primarily in lapidary arts for cabochons, beads, and jewelry. It is also highly popular as a decorative carving material and a pocket stone for collectors.

Geological facts

Picture Jasper is often referred to as the 'Stone of Global Awareness' because its patterns frequently resemble scenery from different parts of the Earth. It belongs to the chalcedony family of microcrystalline quartz.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its opaque, smooth surface and distinct, landscape-like banding. It is most commonly found in the Pacific Northwest of the United States (especially Idaho and Oregon) and parts of Africa. Field identification relies on hardness testing and its unique earthy color palette.

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