sedimentary

Jasper-rich breccia (likely iron-stained jasper)

Silicified breccia composed mainly of microcrystalline quartz (SiO₂), with hematite/goethite and possibly iron-rich clay minerals

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs; opaque red, orange, brown, gray, and black; generally dull to waxy luster. The angular fragments and contrasting iron-oxide matrix indicate brecciation, while quartz gives high hardness and no obvious cleavage.

Identified September 6, 2026More sedimentary →

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At a glance

Common name: Jasper-rich breccia (likely iron-stained jasper)
Scientific name: Silicified breccia composed mainly of microcrystalline quartz (SiO₂), with hematite/goethite and possibly iron-rich clay minerals
Category: sedimentary
Identified: September 6, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $5–$25 as a rough common specimen; $30–$150+ if polished, unusually colorful, or from a documented locality.

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

Likely formed when silica-rich rock fragments were fractured, cemented, and later stained or replaced by iron oxides during hydrothermal or groundwater circulation. Its precise age cannot be determined from the photograph; such material occurs in rocks ranging from Precambrian to much younger deposits.

Uses & applications

Used as lapidary material, cabochons, carvings, tumbled stone, and decorative aggregate; attractive pieces may be sold as jasper or brecciated jasper.

Geological facts

The vivid red coloration commonly comes from hematite, while yellow-brown areas may contain goethite or limonite. “Jasper” is a descriptive lapidary term rather than a single mineral species.

Field identification & locations

Identify by testing for glass-scratching hardness, examining angular fragments, and checking that it is opaque with iron-red coloration; common occurrences include hydrothermal veins and iron-rich volcanic or sedimentary terrains worldwide.