Where is Jasper found?
Chalcedony (microcrystalline quartz) with iron oxides
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Open the appJasper occurs in specific geological environments. Knowing where to look, and in what kind of rock, is the difference between going home empty-handed and finding a great specimen.
Where to find Jasper
United States
Oregon (Picture Jasper), California (various types), Idaho, Arizona, Washington, Texas.
India
Known for various colors and patterns, including 'Ocean Jasper' (from Madagascar, but often traded through India).
Madagascar
Famous for 'Ocean Jasper' and other orbicular varieties.
Australia
Known for Mookite Jasper and other colorful varieties.
Russia
Ural Mountains are a source of high-quality Jasper.
Egypt
Historically significant source, used in ancient artifacts.
Collecting tips
- Look in areas with volcanic activity. Jasper often forms in association with volcanic rocks or hydrothermal alteration zones.
- Check stream beds and gravels. Jasper is durable and can be transported by water, so look for rounded pebbles and cobbles in rivers and streams.
- Examine exposed rock faces. Look for veins, nodules, or layers of colorful, opaque material within sedimentary or altered igneous rocks.
- Use a hardness test. Jasper will scratch glass and steel, helping to differentiate it from softer minerals.
Quick Check
- Color:
- Opaque, typically red, yellow, brown, green, often patterned.
- Luster:
- Dull to waxy.
- Streak:
- White (even for colored varieties, due to the dominant quartz component).
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