Wildhorse Picture Jasper




Mineral Characteristics:
Chemical Formula: SiO2--Also has impurities which provide color and patterns
Moh's Hardness: 6-7
Specific Gravity: 2.5-2.75 (varies based on impurities)
Crystal form: Cryptocrystaline

Wildhorse Picture Jasper is one of the many varieties of cryptocrystaline quartz, which includes others such as agates, chalcedony, and various other jaspers.

There are numerous varieties of jasper all called picture jasper, and they usually are characterized by patterns that resemble landscapes. Wildhorse often has a greenish area contrasted with a patterned area with browns and tans. It makes a very attractive peice of jewelry. Picture jaspers are fun because sometimes the patterns really resemble faces, or silhouettes or objects.

Wildhorse Picture Jasper comes from the Owyhee Mountains on the border of Idaho and Oregon. Other varieties are also found in this area. Wildhorse cuts nicely, much like other jaspers.




©copyright Chad Parker, 2005, 2006