Comparison · Quartz Family vs Sedimentary Rocks
Jasper vs Mookaite
Jasper and Mookaite are easy to confuse. 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 Jasper and Mookaite
- Both sit near Mohs 7, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead.
- Luster is different: Jasper is vitreous while Mookaite is waxy.
- They overlap in red, yellow, and brown, but Jasper also comes in green and multicolored and Mookaite also comes in white and purple.
- Well-formed crystals give it away: Jasper is hexagonal, Mookaite is amorphous.
Jasper vs Mookaite properties
| Property | Jasper | Mookaite |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Quartz Family | Sedimentary Rocks |
| Mohs hardness | 7 | 6.5 |
| Luster | vitreous | waxy |
| Streak | White | White |
| Transparency | opaque | opaque |
| Specific gravity | 2.6 | 2.6 |
| Crystal system | hexagonal | amorphous |
| Common colors | Red, Yellow, Brown, Green, Multi-colored | Yellow, Red, Cream, Purple, Brown |
| Rarity | common | uncommon |
| Typical specimen value | $5–$150+ | $5–$160+ |
Which is more valuable?
Mookaite is usually the more valuable of the two: a typical collector specimen runs about $25 against $20 for Jasper, and premium Mookaite can reach $160 or more.
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.
About Mookaite
Mookaite is a colorful jasper-like trade material from Western Australia, usually showing mustard yellow, red, cream, brown, or purple patches.
Jasper vs Mookaite FAQ
Is Jasper the same as Mookaite?
No. Jasper is a quartz family while Mookaite is a sedimentary rock. 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 Jasper from Mookaite?
Both sit near Mohs 7, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead. Luster is different: Jasper is vitreous while Mookaite is waxy. They overlap in red, yellow, and brown, but Jasper also comes in green and multicolored and Mookaite also comes in white and purple.
Which is harder, Jasper or Mookaite?
Jasper is harder: Mohs 7 against Mohs 6.5 for Mookaite.
Which is more valuable, Jasper or Mookaite?
Mookaite is usually the more valuable of the two: a typical collector specimen runs about $25 against $20 for Jasper, and premium Mookaite can reach $160 or more.
