sedimentary

Orbicular jasper (polished/tumbled)

Silica-rich microcrystalline quartz/chalcedony, commonly with iron-oxide or other mineral orbicules; composition varies by locality

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Typically Mohs 6.5–7, opaque to translucent, waxy or vitreous luster, yellow-brown to red-brown coloration, and no visible cleavage. The rounded darker orbicules are its defining pattern, produced by concentric mineral growth.

Identified August 26, 2026More sedimentary →

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At a glance

Common name: Orbicular jasper (polished/tumbled)
Scientific name: Silica-rich microcrystalline quartz/chalcedony, commonly with iron-oxide or other mineral orbicules; composition varies by locality
Category: sedimentary
Identified: August 26, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

$5–$25 for a small tumbled specimen; $20–$100 for an attractive cabochon or larger polished piece

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 replaced and cemented by microcrystalline quartz, with repeated mineral deposition creating orbicules; age depends on locality, commonly Paleozoic to Cenozoic. Common sources include Madagascar, Indonesia, Mexico, and Australia.

Uses & applications

Used for cabochons, beads, carvings, tumbled stones, and decorative objects; occasionally used as an ornamental stone. It has modest collector value unless the orbicular pattern is unusually vivid and well polished.

Geological facts

Orbicular jasper is a trade name covering several patterned jasper varieties rather than one precisely defined mineral species. The specimen appears polished and may also be sold as “ocean jasper” if its locality and pattern match that material.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by its opaque chalcedony-like body, rounded contrasting orbs, hardness sufficient to resist a steel scratch, and lack of cleavage; glassy bubbles or uniform translucence may indicate imitation. Value is typically $5–$25 for a small tumbled stone, or $20–$100 for attractive cabochons and larger pieces.