sedimentary

Orbicular jasper

Silicified volcanic or sedimentary rock, primarily microcrystalline quartz (SiO₂) with iron-oxide minerals

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Typically tan, cream, red, and brown orbicular patterns; opaque, earthy to dull/waxy luster, massive structure, no cleavage, and Mohs hardness about 6.5–7. The rounded specimen appears naturally weathered or roughly tumbled.

Identified August 18, 2026More sedimentary →

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At a glance

Common name: Orbicular jasper
Scientific name: Silicified volcanic or sedimentary rock, primarily microcrystalline quartz (SiO₂) with iron-oxide minerals
Category: sedimentary
Identified: August 18, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $5–$25 for a common rough hand specimen; $30–$150+ for unusually vivid, verified locality material or quality lapidary pieces.

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 fluids replace or cement volcanic ash, sediment, or preexisting rock, producing concentric mineral growths and iron staining. Exact age cannot be determined from the image; deposits range from Precambrian to much younger.

Uses & applications

Used for cabochons, beads, carvings, decorative stones, and lapidary collectibles; too small and patterned for construction use.

Geological facts

Orbicular jasper is valued for its distinctive eye-like or floral spheres, though similar material may be sold as ocean jasper, leopard jasper, or rhyolite depending on locality and composition.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its opaque concentric orb patterns, silica hardness, lack of visible cleavage, and inability to scratch with a steel coin easily; common sources include Madagascar, Mexico, Australia, and the western United States. A locality label or testing is needed for precise identification.