mineral
Likely tumbled jasper or iron-rich chert
Microcrystalline quartz (SiO₂), variably colored by iron oxides
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectSmall reddish-brown, opaque, smoothly worn fragment with earthy to weakly vitreous luster. Hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs; no visible cleavage; fine-grained cryptocrystalline structure and moderate-to-high density (~2.6 g/cm³).
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Physical properties
Small reddish-brown, opaque, smoothly worn fragment with earthy to weakly vitreous luster. Hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs; no visible cleavage; fine-grained cryptocrystalline structure and moderate-to-high density (~2.6 g/cm³).
Formation & geological history
Likely formed when silica-rich fluids replaced or cemented sediment, with iron oxides producing the brown-red coloration; geological age cannot be determined from the photograph. Its rounded surface suggests natural abrasion or tumbling.
Uses & applications
Used for cabochons, beads, carvings, lapidary pieces, and inexpensive decorative specimens; not generally used as aggregate at this tiny size.
Geological facts
Jasper and chert are varieties of microcrystalline quartz and can look nearly identical. The specimen is too small and low-detail for a definitive subtype identification.
Field identification & locations
Common in gravel, alluvial deposits, and weathered volcanic or sedimentary terrains worldwide. A scratch test against ordinary steel or glass can support quartz identification, though testing may damage it.
