Jasper Vs. Onyx

Jasper is a very popular gemstone composed of silicon dioxide.^[1] Onyx is also a very popular gemstone and its chemical composition is also silicon dioxide.^[2]

Quick Facts on Differences of Jasper and Onyx

For a quick recap of the differences jasper and onyx:

• While both jasper and onyx is opaque, onyx can be translucent.
• While both jasper and onyx is hexagonal, in terms of crystallography, onyx can be trigonal.
• While both jasper and onyx can be vitreous or waxy, in terms of luster, jasper can be dull.
• Jasper can be commonly red while onyx can be commonly black.

Quick Facts on Similarities of Jasper and Onyx

The similarities of jasper and onyx include:

• For chemical formulas, jasper and onyx both are SiO2.
• Jasper and onyx both streak white.
• Jasper's rarity is similar to onyx.
• Jasper's hardness overlaps with onyx - jasper ranges from 6.5 to 7 and onyx is 7 on the Moh's scale.
• Jasper's specific gravity overlaps with onyx - jasper ranges from 2.55 to 2.91 and onyx is 2.651.

Summary of Jasper

Jasper is a type of mineral that is commonly found in sedimentary rocks, and is usually formed through the deposition of silica-rich sediments. It is a beautiful and unique mineral that comes in a variety of colors, including red, brown, yellow, green, and blue. Jasper is often used in jewelry making, as well as for decorative purposes in home decor and landscaping.

Summary of Onyx

Onyx is a mineral that belongs to the chalcedony family, which is a type of quartz that is formed by the deposition of silica in the cavities of rocks. It is a cryptocrystalline mineral, which means that its crystals are too small to be seen with the naked eye. Onyx is typically black, but it can also be found in other colors such as white, gray, brown, and green. It has a waxy luster and a smooth, polished surface.

Table Comparison of Jasper vs Onyx