mineral

Polished brecciated jasper (likely Apache tear–type iron-rich jasper)

Jasper, microcrystalline quartz (SiO₂), colored by hematite/goethite and other iron oxides

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Opaque, reddish-orange and black-brown brecciated pattern with a glassy to waxy polish; quartz hardness ~6.5–7 Mohs, no visible cleavage, cryptocrystalline structure, specific gravity about 2.6. Exact identification is limited by the photograph.

Identified August 16, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Polished brecciated jasper (likely Apache tear–type iron-rich jasper)
Scientific name: Jasper, microcrystalline quartz (SiO₂), colored by hematite/goethite and other iron oxides
Category: mineral
Identified: August 16, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Approximately $5–$30 for a palm-sized polished piece; $30–$100+ for unusually attractive patterning or fine lapidary work.

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 cement or replace volcanic and sedimentary material, with iron oxides producing the red-orange colors; commonly associated with volcanic terrains and formed across many geological ages. It appears tumbled or polished.

Uses & applications

Used for cabochons, beads, carvings, decorative objects, and lapidary collections; occasionally used as ornamental stone. Generally inexpensive unless the pattern and polish are exceptional.

Geological facts

Jasper is an opaque variety of chalcedony/microcrystalline quartz rather than a distinct single mineral species. The black portions may represent manganese oxides, magnetite, or dark host rock.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its opaque body, strong red-orange/black pattern, and inability to scratch with a steel knife; quartz should scratch glass, though testing a polished specimen may damage it. Common sources include Arizona, Oregon, California, Mexico, Brazil, India, and Australia.