metamorphic

Orbicular jasper (likely ocean or leopard jasper)

Siliceous microcrystalline quartz aggregate; mainly SiO₂ with iron oxides and accessory feldspar/carbonates

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs; polished, opaque, brown, black, cream, gray, and rust-red orbicules with a waxy-to-vitreous luster. Massive cryptocrystalline structure, no visible cleavage, and specific gravity near 2.6.

Identified September 15, 2026More metamorphic →

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At a glance

Common name: Orbicular jasper (likely ocean or leopard jasper)
Scientific name: Siliceous microcrystalline quartz aggregate; mainly SiO₂ with iron oxides and accessory feldspar/carbonates
Category: metamorphic
Identified: September 15, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $10–$40 for a palm-sized polished piece; $50–$150+ for unusually vivid patterning, provenance, or fine workmanship.

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

Forms when silica-rich volcanic or sedimentary material is altered and recrystallized, with contrasting mineral-rich zones producing orbicular patterns; commonly Precambrian to younger, depending on locality.

Uses & applications

Used for cabochons, carvings, worry stones, ornamental slabs, and lapidary collections; generally decorative rather than industrial.

Geological facts

The circular patterns are mineral aggregates, not fossils or true spherical crystals. “Ocean jasper” is a trade name often applied to orbicular material from Madagascar.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its very hard, opaque body, intricate rounded orbicules, and ability to take a high polish; common sources include Madagascar, Mexico, Australia, and Indonesia. Acid and streak tests are usually unnecessary.