Where is Red Jasper and Quartz found?
SiO2 (Jasper, a variety of Chalcedony) and SiO2 (Quartz)
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Open the appRed Jasper and Quartz 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 Red Jasper and Quartz
United States
Oregon, California, Idaho, Arizona, and Washington are known for various types of jasper, including red varieties. Quartz is found throughout the US.
India
Significant source of various chalcedony varieties, including jasper.
Australia
Known for large deposits of jasper, often associated with banded iron formations.
Brazil
A major global source of quartz in many forms, including amethyst and citrine, and also produces jasper.
Madagascar
Produces a variety of ornamental stones, including jasper and quartz.
Collecting tips
- Look in Sedimentary and Volcanic Areas. Red Jasper is often found in areas with past volcanic activity or in sedimentary beds where silica-rich fluids have precipitated. Look for stream beds, eroded hillsides, and exposed rock formations.
- Identify Associated Minerals. Jasper can be found alongside other silica minerals, chert, or within volcanic host rocks. Quartz is often found in veins, pegmatites, and as a component of many common rocks.
- Check for Hardness. Both jasper and quartz are hard minerals (Mohs 6.5-7). They will scratch glass and cannot be scratched by a steel knife. This helps differentiate them from softer red minerals.
- Observe Fracture. The conchoidal fracture (shell-like breaks) is characteristic of both jasper and quartz, which can be a useful identification feature.
Quick Check
- Color:
- Red (Jasper), various (Quartz)
- Luster:
- Dull to Vitreous (Jasper), Vitreous (Quartz)
- Streak:
- White
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