# Jasper

> Jasper is an opaque chalcedony in earthy colors with unique patterns (6.5-7 on Mohs); durable, affordable and widely used in cabochons and beads.

- Source: https://www.711grados.com/en/jasper/
- Language: en
- Note: This entry was drafted with the help of AI and is pending review by the author.
- Published: 2026-09-13
- Updated: 2026-09-13
- Translation (es): https://www.711grados.com/es/jaspe/
- Author: Sandra Sánchez
- Site: 711 Grados (https://www.711grados.com/)

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Jasper is an opaque microcrystalline quartz with impurities that give red, green, brown and yellow colors, with patterns of spots, bands and landscapes. It is used in cabochons, beads and carvings.

## Properties

- **Composition:** silicon dioxide with iron oxides and other impurities.
- **Hardness:** 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale.
- **Color:** red, green, brown, yellow, blue; with patterns.
- **Origins:** Worldwide; Brazil, India, Australia and the USA.
- **Treatments:** may be dyed.

## Uses in jewelry

- Cabochons and beads.
- Carved pendants.
- Ethnic and rustic jewelry.

## Pros and cons

### Advantages

- Very affordable and durable.
- Earthy, natural colors.
- Every piece is unique.

### Limitations

- It is opaque with no crystalline sparkle.
- Some varieties are dyed.
- Mistaken for other chalcedonies.

## Care and cleaning

- Clean with lukewarm water and mild soap.
- Avoid hard knocks.
- Store apart.

## See also

- [Gemstones in jewelry](https://www.711grados.com/en/gemstones-in-jewelry/)
- [Agate](https://www.711grados.com/en/agate/)
- [Quartz and its varieties](https://www.711grados.com/en/quartz/)