mineral

Polished amber-like chalcedony (likely carnelian/ochre jasper)

Microcrystalline quartz, SiO₂; coloration likely from iron oxides/hydroxides

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs; translucent honey-brown to orange with darker inclusions, waxy-to-glassy luster, cryptocrystalline structure, and no visible cleavage. The rounded shape indicates tumbling or polishing; a wet surface enhances its gloss.

Identified August 30, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Polished amber-like chalcedony (likely carnelian/ochre jasper)
Scientific name: Microcrystalline quartz, SiO₂; coloration likely from iron oxides/hydroxides
Category: mineral
Identified: August 30, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $5–$30 for a small polished common piece; potentially $30–$100+ if it proves to be high-quality natural carnelian or unusual jasper.

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 groundwater fills cavities or replaces rock, with iron producing the yellow-brown color; formation ages vary widely, commonly millions to hundreds of millions of years. It may also be dyed or coated, which cannot be confirmed from the image.

Uses & applications

Used for cabochons, beads, carvings, and decorative stones; common pieces have modest collector value. It is not typically used as a construction aggregate in this polished form.

Geological facts

Its appearance resembles amber, but amber is fossilized organic resin and is much softer (about 2–2.5 Mohs). A loupe may reveal cloudy chalcedony texture rather than resin flow lines or plant inclusions.

Field identification & locations

Common sources include Brazil, India, Madagascar, Uruguay, and the western United States. Field clues are its cool, heavy, glassy feel and resistance to scratching by steel; definitive identification may require refractive-index or gemological testing.