Comparison · Quartz Family vs Metamorphic Rocks
Jasper vs Unakite
Jasper and Unakite 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 Unakite
- Both sit near Mohs 7, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead.
- Streak color differs: Jasper leaves a white streak on unglazed porcelain, Unakite leaves variable; test individual minerals.
- They overlap in green and multicolored, but Jasper also comes in red, yellow, and brown and Unakite also comes in pink.
Jasper vs Unakite properties
| Property | Jasper | Unakite |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Quartz Family | Metamorphic Rocks |
| Mohs hardness | 7 | 6.5 |
| Luster | vitreous | vitreous |
| Streak | White | Variable; test individual minerals |
| Transparency | opaque | opaque |
| Specific gravity | 2.6 | 2.9 |
| Crystal system | hexagonal | varies |
| Common colors | Red, Yellow, Brown, Green, Multi-colored | Pink and Green mottled, Salmon, Olive Green |
| Rarity | common | common |
| Typical specimen value | $5–$150+ | $2–$50+ |
Which is more valuable?
Jasper is usually the more valuable of the two: a typical collector specimen runs about $20 against $10 for Unakite, and premium Jasper can reach $150 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 Unakite
Unakite is a metamorphosed granite composed of pink orthoclase feldspar, green epidote, and quartz. Named after the Unaka Mountains of Tennessee.
Jasper vs Unakite FAQ
Is Jasper the same as Unakite?
No. Jasper is a quartz family while Unakite is a metamorphic 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 Unakite?
Both sit near Mohs 7, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead. Streak color differs: Jasper leaves a white streak on unglazed porcelain, Unakite leaves variable; test individual minerals. They overlap in green and multicolored, but Jasper also comes in red, yellow, and brown and Unakite also comes in pink.
Which is harder, Jasper or Unakite?
Jasper is harder: Mohs 7 against Mohs 6.5 for Unakite.
Which is more valuable, Jasper or Unakite?
Jasper is usually the more valuable of the two: a typical collector specimen runs about $20 against $10 for Unakite, and premium Jasper can reach $150 or more.
