mineral

Iron-rich jasper or weathered hematite-bearing rock

Ferruginous jasper, primarily microcrystalline quartz (SiO₂) with iron oxides such as hematite (Fe₂O₃) and goethite (FeO(OH))

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Opaque orange-red to brown, earthy to dull/waxy luster, irregular fracture, and likely hardness about 6–7 Mohs; the dark gray metallic-looking patch may be hematite or magnetite. Crystal structure is cryptocrystalline quartz, with no visible cleavage.

Identified September 13, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Iron-rich jasper or weathered hematite-bearing rock
Scientific name: Ferruginous jasper, primarily microcrystalline quartz (SiO₂) with iron oxides such as hematite (Fe₂O₃) and goethite (FeO(OH))
Category: mineral
Identified: September 13, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $1–$10 as an ordinary rough specimen; $10–$30 if unusually attractive, locality-labeled, or suitable for cutting.

Not an official valuation

AI estimate for general interest only — not an appraisal. Actual value depends on condition, provenance, and market demand. Verify with a professional before buying, selling, or insuring.

This identification was generated by AI and may contain errors. Verify important details before relying on them — and never use an AI result to judge whether a specimen is safe to handle. Read the full disclaimer

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms when silica-rich fluids cement or replace iron-rich sediments and volcanic material, commonly through hydrothermal or weathering processes. Exact geological age cannot be determined from the photograph.

Uses & applications

Used as decorative stone, cabochons, beads, carvings, and lapidary material; iron-rich varieties are occasionally associated with iron-ore deposits. This small, rough specimen has limited commercial value.

Geological facts

The vivid red-orange color comes from finely dispersed iron oxides, while gray metallic zones may indicate concentrated hematite or magnetite. A streak test can help distinguish them: hematite leaves a reddish-brown streak, whereas magnetite leaves a black streak.

Field identification & locations

Common in iron-formation terrains, volcanic regions, and heavily weathered landscapes worldwide. Check for a red-brown streak, test magnetism, and look for a consistent glassy/waxy fracture to distinguish jasper from softer clay or slag.