Rock Identifier
Polished brecciated jasper (likely ocean jasper or jasp-agate) (Microcrystalline quartz/chalcedony, SiO₂, with iron-oxide impurities) — mineral
mineral

Polished brecciated jasper (likely ocean jasper or jasp-agate)

Microcrystalline quartz/chalcedony, SiO₂, with iron-oxide impurities

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs; opaque brown, orange, yellow, cream, and purple coloration; vitreous to waxy polish; no visible cleavage; cryptocrystalline quartz structure; specific gravity roughly 2.5–2.7.

Identified More mineral
Explore Polished brecciated jasper (likely ocean jasper or jasp-agate) in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

Physical properties

Hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs; opaque brown, orange, yellow, cream, and purple coloration; vitreous to waxy polish; no visible cleavage; cryptocrystalline quartz structure; specific gravity roughly 2.5–2.7.

Formation & geological history

Forms when silica-rich fluids replace or cement volcanic or sedimentary material, with iron and manganese producing the earthy colors. The specimen is geologically ancient, commonly associated with volcanic terrains, though its exact age and locality cannot be determined from the image.

Uses & applications

Used for cabochons, beads, carvings, worry stones, and decorative objects; polished pieces are popular among collectors but generally have modest commercial value.

Geological facts

The angular cream and purple patches suggest brecciation or jasper–chalcedony veining. Purple tones may reflect manganese minerals or amethystine quartz rather than true purple jasper.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by its opaque multicolor pattern, glassy polish, lack of cleavage, and resistance to scratching; it should not be scratched by a steel blade. Common sources include Madagascar, Oregon, India, Brazil, and Indonesia.