sedimentary

Zebra Jasper

Tetragonal Silicon Dioxide (Quartz) with impurities

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 6.5-7 Mohs; Color: Striated black, white, and grey; Luster: Vitreous to greasy when polished; Crystal Structure: Microcrystalline; Specific Gravity: 2.6-2.9

Hardness: 6
Color: Striated black, white, and grey
Luster: Vitreous to greasy when polished

Identified April 29, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6.5-7 Mohs; Color: Striated black, white, and grey; Luster: Vitreous to greasy when polished; Crystal Structure: Microcrystalline; Specific Gravity: 2.6-2.9

Formation & geological history

Formed from silicon-rich sedimentary deposits where mineral impurities layered over time to create distinctive banding. Most specimens originate from ancient deposits in Australia or Africa.

Uses & applications

Primarily used for ornamental purposes such as carvings, cabochons for jewelry, decorative home items, and as a popular stone for lapidary collectors.

Geological facts

Despite being called 'Zebra Jasper', it is often technically a variegated form of marble or a dark chert with white quartz veins rather than a true jasper in some geological contexts.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its characteristic high-contrast 'zebra' stripes and high polish. It is a very common material in the metaphysical and gemstone carving market.