mineral

Ocean Jasper (Orbicular Jasper)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with iron and other mineral inclusions

Hardness: 6.5-7 Mohs; Color: Multicolored (green, pink, yellow, rust, white); Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal Structure: Trigonal (microcrystalline); Pattern: Circular patterns or orbs.

Hardness: 6
Color: Multicolored (green, pink, yellow, rust, white)
Luster: Vitreous to dull

Identified May 28, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6.5-7 Mohs; Color: Multicolored (green, pink, yellow, rust, white); Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal Structure: Trigonal (microcrystalline); Pattern: Circular patterns or orbs.

Formation & geological history

Formed as a rhyolitic or sedimentary deposition where silica-rich fluids cooled slowly, creating orbicular spherical structures in the rock. Primarily found in Cretaceous age sediments.

Uses & applications

Primarily used in jewelry (beads, cabochons), ornamental carvings, and by crystal collectors for aesthetic and metaphysical purposes.

Geological facts

Ocean Jasper is only found on the coast of Madagascar and can only be mined during low tide, making it rarer than other jasper varieties. It is often technically a chalcedony rather than a jasper.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its distinctive multicolored circular 'orbs' and veins. It often contains pocketed drusy quartz. It is highly sought after by mineral collectors for its unique aesthetic variety.

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