mineral

Red Jasper

Silicon Dioxide with Hematite impurities (SiO2 + Fe2O3)

Hardness: 6.5–7 on the Mohs scale; Color: Terracotta red to brownish-red; Luster: Dull to vitreous (waxy when polished); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal) microcrystalline; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.58–2.91

Hardness: 6
Color: Terracotta red to brownish-red
Luster: Dull to vitreous (waxy when polished)

Identified March 14, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through the deposition of silica from hydrothermal solutions or within sedimentary rocks, where iron inclusions (hematite) provide the red pigment. It can form in various geological ages, often found in ancient volcanic and sedimentary sequences.

Uses & applications

Commonly used in jewelry (beads, cabochons), lapidary arts, decorative ornaments, and as a spiritual 'root chakra' stone in the metaphysical community.

Geological facts

Red Jasper has been used for millennia; it was a favorite for amulets in Ancient Egypt and mentioned in biblical texts. It is considered a variety of chalcedony that is opaque due to its high mineral inclusion content.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its deep red color, characteristic conchoidal fracture (curved breaks), and hardness (it will scratch glass but not quartz). Common locations include India, Brazil, South Africa, and the Southwestern United States.

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