Jasper
Jasper is an impure form of quartz containing fine iron or clay minerals, and its intricate colors and patterns resemble natural works of art. It is highly valued across Japan as a decorative stone, with various regional varieties.
Jasper with beautiful natural patterns
Basic Information
| Chemical Formula | SiO₂ + impurities (iron/clay minerals) |
|---|---|
| Classification | Hexagonal (cryptocrystalline) |
| Hardness | 7 (Mohs scale) |
| Specific Gravity | 2.80 |
Characteristics
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An aggregate of quartz containing fine iron or clay minerals.
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Diverse colors and patterns expressing natural beauty.
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Highly regarded as a decorative stone, with varieties such as Izumo stone, Akadama stone, and Nishiki stone.
Trivia: In Japan, where a culture of collecting decorative stones has flourished, locally sourced jasper has been particularly cherished.