mineral

Orbicular jasper (likely ocean jasper)

Silica-rich jasper/chalcedony, mainly microcrystalline quartz (SiO₂), with feldspar, zeolites, chlorite, and iron oxides

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness about 6.5–7; opaque, green, cream, gray, and brown; dull to waxy luster; microcrystalline, massive structure with no cleavage. Rounded orbicular patterns and polished surface are visible.

Identified August 16, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Orbicular jasper (likely ocean jasper)
Scientific name: Silica-rich jasper/chalcedony, mainly microcrystalline quartz (SiO₂), with feldspar, zeolites, chlorite, and iron oxides
Category: mineral
Identified: August 16, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $10–$40 for a small tumbled or palm stone; $40–$150+ for attractive patterns, quality cabochons, or rare Madagascar material.

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

Hardness about 6.5–7; opaque, green, cream, gray, and brown; dull to waxy luster; microcrystalline, massive structure with no cleavage. Rounded orbicular patterns and polished surface are visible.

Formation & geological history

A volcanic or volcaniclastic silica-rich rock formed when mineral-rich fluids filled cavities and replaced material, producing orbicules. Ocean jasper is chiefly associated with Miocene volcanic rocks of Madagascar, though similar orbicular jasper occurs elsewhere.

Uses & applications

Used as a lapidary stone for cabochons, beads, carvings, and polished specimens; it has little industrial value compared with ordinary quartz.

Geological facts

The green coloration commonly reflects chlorite or other alteration minerals, while cream and brown zones may contain feldspar and iron oxides. “Ocean jasper” is a trade name rather than a single strict mineral species.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by its opaque multicolored orbicular texture, very fine grain, and glass-scratching hardness; it should not show the translucency typical of agate. Common sources include Madagascar, Mexico, Australia, and Oregon.