mineral

Likely jasper (small brown fragment)

Microcrystalline quartz, SiO₂; opaque varieties are commonly called jasper

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Mustard-brown, opaque, with a dull to slightly waxy luster and irregular fracture. Quartz hardness is about 7 Mohs; crystal structure is trigonal, though individual crystals are too small to see.

Identified October 15, 2026More mineral →

Explore Likely jasper (small brown fragment) in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Mustard-brown, opaque, with a dull to slightly waxy luster and irregular fracture. Quartz hardness is about 7 Mohs; crystal structure is trigonal, though individual crystals are too small to see.

Formation & geological history

Jasper forms when silica-rich fluids fill or replace material in rocks, often acquiring color from iron oxides. Its age and formation setting cannot be determined from this fragment alone.

Uses & applications

Used for beads, cabochons, carvings, and small decorative objects; this piece appears fragmentary and has little practical value.

Geological facts

“Jasper” describes an opaque, silica-rich material rather than a single uniquely defined rock type.

Field identification & locations

The brown color and opacity are consistent with jasper, but the image alone cannot confirm the identification; a glass-scratch test can help distinguish quartz-rich material. Jasper occurs worldwide in silica-rich veins and sedimentary deposits.