Comparison · Quartz Family
Carnelian vs Jasper
Carnelian and Jasper are easy to confuse because both are quartz family. Both sit near Mohs 7, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead. Below is a side-by-side comparison of their properties and the quick tests that separate them.
Key differences between Carnelian and Jasper
- Both sit near Mohs 7, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead.
- Hold a thin edge to the light: Carnelian is translucent, Jasper is opaque.
- They overlap in red and brown, but Carnelian also comes in orange and Jasper also comes in yellow, green, and multicolored.
Carnelian vs Jasper properties
| Property | Carnelian | Jasper |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Quartz Family | Quartz Family |
| Mohs hardness | 7 | 7 |
| Luster | vitreous | vitreous |
| Streak | White | White |
| Transparency | translucent | opaque |
| Specific gravity | 2.6 | 2.6 |
| Crystal system | hexagonal | hexagonal |
| Common colors | Orange, Red-Orange, Reddish-Brown | Red, Yellow, Brown, Green, Multi-colored |
| Rarity | common | common |
| Typical specimen value | $5–$150+ | $5–$150+ |
Which is more valuable?
Carnelian is usually the more valuable of the two: a typical collector specimen runs about $25 against $20 for Jasper, and premium Carnelian can reach $150 or more.
About Carnelian
Carnelian is a warm-colored variety of chalcedony ranging from pale orange to deep red-brown. It's been used in jewelry for over 4,500 years.
About Jasper
Jasper is an opaque variety of chalcedony found in a wide array of colors and patterns. Each variety has unique characteristics based on its formation.
Carnelian vs Jasper FAQ
Is Carnelian the same as Jasper?
No. Both are quartz family, but they are distinct species with different hardness, streak or luster. Both sit near Mohs 7, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead.
How can you tell Carnelian from Jasper?
Both sit near Mohs 7, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead. Hold a thin edge to the light: Carnelian is translucent, Jasper is opaque. They overlap in red and brown, but Carnelian also comes in orange and Jasper also comes in yellow, green, and multicolored.
Which is harder, Carnelian or Jasper?
They are about equally hard, both near Mohs 7.
Which is more valuable, Carnelian or Jasper?
Carnelian is usually the more valuable of the two: a typical collector specimen runs about $25 against $20 for Jasper, and premium Carnelian can reach $150 or more.
