Gemstone profile and identification guide
Picture Jasper
Picture jasper is a patterned jasper variety known for natural landscape-like designs.
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Overview
Picture jasper is a patterned jasper variety known for natural landscape-like designs.
Did you know? Cut orientation can dramatically change the scenic image in a picture jasper slab.
Use this profile as a collector reference and educational guide for quick on-page comparison, then validate with the interactive identification system.
Identification
Name: Picture Jasper
Scientific classification: Silicate (Jasper Pattern Variety, Opaque Chalcedony Aggregate)
Hardness: 6.75 Mohs
Transparency: opaque
Lustre: waxy
Crystal system: Trigonal (microcrystalline aggregate)
Primary colour: Brown
Secondary colour: Tan
Colour family: Browns
Landscape-like earthy patterns in opaque jasper host are key identifiers.
Verification Status
Status: verified-core-fields
Reference priority: GIA, Gem-A, Mindat, International Gem Society
Core identity, locality, and physical-property fields reviewed against standard gemological references.
Trade-name entries include conservative composition and treatment disclosures where needed.
Physical Properties
Hardness category: hard
Hardness value: 6.75 Mohs
Chemical composition: Silicon dioxide (SiO2) with iron and clay-derived patterning
Crystal system: Trigonal (microcrystalline aggregate)
Common locations: United States, Indonesia, Brazil, South Africa
Learn more: Gem-A gemstone education resources.
Colour Variations
Opaque jasper with landscape-like scenic patterning in earth tones.
Optical effects: Scenic Patterning
Detailed Gemology
Mineral species: Quartz (jasper variety)
Mineral group: Quartz group
Chemical formula: Silicon dioxide (SiO2) with iron and clay-derived patterning
Mohs hardness: 6.75
Crystal system: Trigonal (microcrystalline aggregate)
Lustre: waxy
Transparency: opaque
Streak: White
Cleavage: None
Fracture: Conchoidal to uneven
Specific gravity: 2.58-2.64
Refractive index: 1.53-1.54
Optical phenomena: None typically diagnostic
Colour range: Brown/tan/cream/black scenic patterns
Common inclusions: Growth features, fractures, and matrix/inclusion structures as applicable
Geological environment: Species-dependent; see formation process
Principal mining regions: United States, Indonesia, Brazil, South Africa
Important commercial sources: Picture jasper is sourced from multiple jasper localities and valued for scenic matrix patterns
Historical significance: Recognized in modern gem and mineral trade contexts.
Common treatments: Treatment status varies by product; disclosure recommended.
Synthetic or imitation forms: Imitations may exist depending on material category.
Common look-alikes: Patterned cherts and decorative composite stones
Jewellery uses: Used in cabochons, carvings, and collectible patterned slabs.
Care recommendations: Durable for jewelry and carvings; avoid severe impact on thin sections.
Cross-check profile data with GIA Gem Encyclopedia and Mindat entry for Picture Jasper.
Formation
Forms through silica deposition and sedimentary/mineral layering creating scenic motifs.
Origin
Picture jasper is sourced from multiple jasper localities and valued for scenic matrix patterns
Uses
Best for: Used in cabochons, carvings, and collectible patterned slabs.
Ideal uses: Scenic cabochons and pattern-focused lapidary work.
Care
Durable for jewelry and carvings; avoid severe impact on thin sections.
Need another candidate? Use advanced gemstone search or return to the identification guide.
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Picture Jasper FAQ
How can I identify Picture Jasper?
Compare hardness (6.75 Mohs), crystal system (Trigonal (microcrystalline aggregate)), colour profile, and lustre (waxy) with your sample. Then cross-check related gemstones listed above.
What colour range does Picture Jasper appear in?
Opaque jasper with landscape-like scenic patterning in earth tones.
Where is Picture Jasper commonly used?
Scenic cabochons and pattern-focused lapidary work.. For maintenance, follow the care guidance in this profile.
Scientific References
GIA: general gemstone identity (reviewed) - Batch 07 factual verification pass.
Gem-A: gemological terminology and testing references (reviewed) - Batch 07 factual verification pass.
Mindat: mineral species and principal localities (reviewed) - Batch 07 factual verification pass.
International Gem Society: gem trade context and treatment overview (reviewed) - Batch 07 factual verification pass.