Jasper is a cryptocrystalline rock. Consists mainly of silica - quartz, chalcedony. Jasper is also rich in pigmented impurities of other minerals, which give it a bright decorative look. Due to this, jaspers are classified as ornamental stones. The heyday of the use of jasper in Russia fell on the reign of Catherine II. The Hermitage exhibits items made from jasper. In the prayer room of St. Basil's Cathedral, the floor is paved with wax jasper.
You can see jasper stone for sale and buy it in the Minerals of Russia online store.
General | |
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Category | Mineral |
Formula (repeating unit) |
SiO2 (with varying impurities) |
Crystal system | Hexagonal |
Crystal class | Quartz (Chalcedony) |
Identification | |
Colour | Most commonly red, but may be yellow, brown, green or (rarely) blue |
Cleavage | Indiscernable |
Mohs scale hardness | 6.5-7 |
Luster | Vitreous |
Diaphaneity | Opaque |
Specific gravity | 2.5-2.9 |
Refractive index | 1.54-2.65 |
Birefringence | 0.009 |