Jasper

Jasper — Every Color, Every Pattern, Every Origin

Jasper is an opaque variety of microcrystalline quartz (chalcedony) that occurs in nearly every color and pattern found in nature. Its diversity comes from the trace minerals and organic material present during formation — iron oxides produce reds and yellows, manganese creates purples, and volcanic ash can produce the orbicular patterns seen in ocean jasper. With a Mohs hardness of 6.5–7, jasper is one of the most durable collectible stones available.

This collection includes ocean jasper from Madagascar (found in only one coastal mine, now largely depleted), Australian mookaite, red jasper, polychrome jasper from the deserts of Madagascar, picture jasper with landscape-like banding, and imperial jasper from Guadalajara, Mexico. Each variety tells a different geological story.

Jasper pairs naturally with agate — both are forms of chalcedony with overlapping formation environments. For other earth-toned minerals, see our carnelian and tiger's eye collections. Explore our $10–$100 range for affordable jasper pieces, or browse Curated Over $100 for large display specimens. Free shipping over $150.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is jasper?

Jasper is an opaque, microcrystalline variety of quartz (SiO₂) that forms when silica-rich fluids permeate rock and crystallize within pore spaces. Its opacity comes from a high percentage of mineral inclusions that also produce its wide range of colors and patterns. Jasper rates 6.5–7 on the Mohs scale.

What are the different types of jasper?

Jasper occurs in hundreds of named varieties. Common types include red jasper (iron oxide), ocean jasper (orbicular patterns, Madagascar), picture jasper (landscape banding, Idaho), dalmatian jasper (black spots in beige), bumblebee jasper (bright yellow/orange, Indonesia), and polychrome jasper (multicolored, Madagascar).

Where does jasper come from?

Madagascar (ocean jasper, polychrome), Indonesia (bumblebee jasper), Mexico (imperial, polychrome), Brazil, India, and the western United States — particularly Idaho (Bruneau canyon), Oregon (Biggs jasper), and California.

How do I identify real jasper?

Authentic jasper is opaque (no light passes through), has Mohs 6.5–7 hardness (scratches glass), breaks with a smooth fracture, and feels cool and dense. It does not have crystalline sparkle — that indicates agate or chalcedony. Jasper takes a good polish but never achieves transparency.

Is ocean jasper rare?

Yes. Ocean jasper comes from a single mine on the northwest coast of Madagascar that is only accessible at low tide. The deposit was discovered in 1999 and is now largely depleted. No new significant deposits have been found, making existing ocean jasper increasingly collectible and valuable.