mineral
Ocean Jasper
Orbicular Jasper / Variolitic Chalcedony (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 6.5-7 on the Mohs scale. Color: Mottled green, teal, brown, and yellowish-cream with distinctive orbicular circular patterns and inclusions. Luster: Dull to waxy when raw, vitreous to silky when polished. Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture).
- Hardness
- 6
- Luster
- Dull to waxy when raw, vitreous to silky when polished
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5-7 on the Mohs scale. Color: Mottled green, teal, brown, and yellowish-cream with distinctive orbicular circular patterns and inclusions. Luster: Dull to waxy when raw, vitreous to silky when polished. Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture).
Formation & geological history
Forms in silicified rhyolite or tuff flows where silica-rich fluids deposit microcrystalline quartz and chalcedony around nucleation points, forming orb-like sphere patterns during low-temperature hydrothermal activity.
Uses & applications
Widely used as an ornamental gemstone, for lapidary arts, cabochons, carved figurines, tumbled stones, and popular among rock collectors.
Geological facts
Ocean Jasper is a famous trade name for a rare orbicular chalcedony found exclusively along the remote northwest coast of Madagascar, originally collected near Marovato.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinctive rounded, eye-like orbicular pattern (spheres) embedded within a microcrystalline chalcedony or jasper matrix. Found primarily along tidal zones in Madagascar.
