metamorphic

Jasper (likely brecciated or orbicular jasper)

Microcrystalline quartz/chalcedony (SiO₂) with iron-oxide and possibly chlorite or epidote inclusions

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Opaque, fine-grained, waxy to dull luster; mottled salmon-red, orange, gray-green, and cream colors from iron oxides and alteration minerals. Hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs, no visible cleavage, conchoidal to uneven fracture; exact crystal structure is cryptocrystalline quartz.

Identified September 15, 2026More metamorphic →

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At a glance

Common name: Jasper (likely brecciated or orbicular jasper)
Scientific name: Microcrystalline quartz/chalcedony (SiO₂) with iron-oxide and possibly chlorite or epidote inclusions
Category: metamorphic
Identified: September 15, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Approximately $2–$15 as a common hand specimen; $20–$100 or more if cut quality reveals attractive patterns.

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 volcanic sediments and breccias, with iron-bearing minerals producing the red-orange colors. Commonly associated with altered volcanic rocks; age depends on locality and cannot be determined from the image.

Uses & applications

Used as lapidary rough, cabochons, carvings, beads, and decorative stone; attractive pieces have modest collector value.

Geological facts

The specimen’s irregular color patches and dark green-gray areas are consistent with jasper containing volcanic or alteration-mineral fragments, though a photograph cannot confirm the exact variety.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its opaque appearance, very fine texture, hardness, and inability to scratch with a steel nail easily; common sources include Oregon, Idaho, California, Australia, India, and Madagascar. A streak, hardness, and locality test would improve identification.