Jasper at heart

Snakeskin jasper is an opaque chalcedony. Under magnification it’s a tightly interlocked mosaic of quartz micro‑fibers, colored by tiny inclusions (iron oxides, clays). The “snakeskin” nickname is a trade name referring to its wavey bands and scale‑like linework—no special species, just a striking variety of jasper.

Ribbon, drape, and scale

Two pattern families appear: (1) ribbon/drape jasper—sinuous layers laid down in thin sheets; and (2) scale/reticulate jasper—a fine network where tiny fractures or compositional fronts were outlined by oxides. Many pieces show both, which is half the fun.

Layered silica

Jasper often begins as silicified fine sediments or volcanic ash where silica gel filled pores and cemented layers. Subtle shifts in chemistry and grain size built the wavey stratification we read as “ribbons.”

Oxide “ink”

Later fluids introduce iron/manganese oxides along micro‑cracks and bedding planes. These dark lines trace delicate scale patterns, like ink following the paper’s fibers.

Pressure & polish

Compaction and low‑grade metamorphism tighten the quartz mosaic. A good lapidary brings the pattern forward with a vitreous polish—no dyes needed for classic material.

Palette

• Ochre & honey — iron‑rich bands and halos.
• Russet to brick — hematite‑tinted layers.
• Cream & bone — light silica laminae.
• Sage & moss — subtle clay/chlorite notes.
• Ink lines — fine manganese/iron tracery.

Expect a waxy–vitreous luster in polish; matte patches may indicate weathered rims or porous seams.

Pattern words

• Ribbon/drape — flowing, parallel bands that fold and pleat.
• Scale/reticulate — fine mesh of lines like delicate scales.
• Liesegang bands — chemical “tide lines” from diffusion.
• Brecciated seams — angular fragments healed by silica, sometimes outlined dark.

Photo tip: Use soft top light for color + a small side kicker to make the scale lines crisp. Neutral background keeps warm tones from shifting orange.

Micro‑mosaic

Look for a granular/sugary texture in high polish; the quartz fibers are too small to resolve but their mosaic look is there.

Oxide lines

Dark tracery hugs micro‑fractures and laminae; tiny halos show where pigment diffused into the silica.

Natural vs. dyed

Dyed pieces show color concentrating in pits and drill holes; natural snakeskin jasper keeps subtle, earthy tones with clean edges.

Picture jasper

Also scenic and banded, but usually with broader landscape swaths and fewer fine “scale” lines.

Mookaite (radiolarite)

Australian; bolder blocks of color (cream, mustard, burgundy) with less reticulation.

Snakeskin agate

Chalcedony too, but translucent with a reticulated surface pattern; snakeskin jasper is opaque and typically smoother.

Leopard skin “jasper” (rhyolite)

Orbicular spots (ocelli) rather than ribbons/scales; often technically a rhyolite, not a jasper.

Quick checklist

• Opaque quartz with wavy bands + fine dark mesh?
• Gives a white streak, no acid fizz?
• Polishes to waxy–vitreous gloss? → Snakeskin jasper.

Where it shines

Banded/reticulate jaspers occur worldwide. Patterns sold as “snakeskin” are commonly seen from Australia (notably Western Australia), parts of the USA (Oregon/Utah scenic jaspers), and deposits in South Africa, India, and Brazil. The name tracks the look, not a specific mine.

What people make

Cabochons that show the ribbon flow, beads aligned with banding, slabs for display, and carvings that use the scale mesh as natural texture.

Everyday care

• Clean with lukewarm water + mild soap; soft cloth dry.
• Avoid prolonged bleach/strong acids—can dull iron‑tinted areas.
• Store away from harder stones (corundum/diamond) to prevent scuffs.

Lapidary tips

• Map veins/porous seams before cutting; stabilize if needed & disclose.
• Cab with light pressure; quartz can chip along micro‑fractures.
• Finish with cerium or tin oxide on leather/felt for a calm gloss.

Display & photography

• Raking light (~25–35°) makes scale lines pop.
• Charcoal or neutral base keeps warm hues balanced.
• Pair a polished cab with a raw slice—pattern recognition clicks fast.

Pattern scavenger hunt

Hand out loupes and invite visitors to find a ribbon fold, a scale mesh, and a brecciated seam. Label cards help new eyes see more.

Color story

Place a magnetite/hematite sample beside the jasper. Those oxides are the “ink” that wrote the lines—great visual connection.