mineral

Polished banded jasper pebble

Jasper, a microcrystalline quartz variety (SiO₂), with iron-oxide and clay/mineral impurities

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs; opaque, tan-brown and cream bands, waxy to vitreous luster, cryptocrystalline structure, and no visible cleavage. The rounded, glossy surface indicates tumbling and polishing.

Identified August 10, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms when silica-rich fluids replace or cement fine sediments or volcanic material, with iron oxides producing the brown coloration and contrasting sedimentary bands. Specific age and locality cannot be determined from the photograph.

Uses & applications

Used for cabochons, beads, carvings, decorative objects, and inexpensive polished specimens; it has little industrial value compared with quartz aggregate.

Geological facts

Jasper is technically an impure, opaque variety of chalcedony or microcrystalline quartz. Banding may resemble agate, but jasper is generally more opaque and less translucent.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by its opacity, dense feel, quartz-like hardness, and irregular earthy banding; it should resist scratching from a steel knife but scratch glass. Common sources include India, Madagascar, Brazil, Australia, and the western United States.