Tan and Cream Jasper
HEXAGONAL

Jasper

SiO2

Hardness
6.5–7
Refractive Index
1.54–1.55
Spec. Gravity
2.63–2.65
System
Hexagonal
View Mineral
Jasper is an opaque variety of Chalcedony, and is usually associated with brown, yellow, or reddish colors, but may be used to describe other opaque colors of Chalcedony such as dark or mottled green, orange, and black. Jasper is almost always multicolored, with unique color patterns and habits.

About

The appeal of Jasper is its interesting color patterns and formations. Though it can be a solid color, it is most often mottled, spotted, ringed, or striped. Each Jasper has a unique color or pattern, lending this gemstone much variety. Jasper is an ancient gemstone, and is mentioned in the bible and other classical sources. Though fairly common and affordable today, Jasper in antiquity was regarded as a valuable stone.

Uses

Jasper is generally an inexpensive gemstone when used in jewelry. It is cut and polished into cabochons, and used as beads for necklaces and bracelets. It is also carved into cameos which can be worn as pendants.

Varieties

common  ·  uncommon

Treatments & Enhancements

Most Jasper is natural and not treated or enhanced, although occasionally it is dyed.

Sources

Jasper is common and found worldwide. Important deposits exist in India, Russia, Kazakhstan, Indonesia, Egypt, Madagascar, Australia, Brazil, Venezuela, Uruguay and the United States (Oregon, Idaho, Washington, California, Arizona, Utah, Arkansas, and Texas).

Similar Gemstones

Jasper is distinguished from other Chalcedony varieties such as Agate and Carnelian by its opacity. The unique color patterns (combined with hardness) can distinguish Jasper from all other gemstones.

Further Reading

In the Rough