Rock Identifier
Polished brecciated jasper (likely dragon-blood or leopard jasper) (Jasper, microcrystalline quartz (SiO₂) with iron-oxide inclusions) — mineral
mineral

Polished brecciated jasper (likely dragon-blood or leopard jasper)

Jasper, microcrystalline quartz (SiO₂) with iron-oxide inclusions

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs; opaque, dark reddish-brown to black with orange-red veins; vitreous to waxy luster; cryptocrystalline quartz, with no visible cleavage and conchoidal fracture. The rounded shape indicates tumbling and polishing.

Identified More mineral
Explore Polished brecciated jasper (likely dragon-blood or leopard jasper) 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, dark reddish-brown to black with orange-red veins; vitreous to waxy luster; cryptocrystalline quartz, with no visible cleavage and conchoidal fracture. The rounded shape indicates tumbling and polishing.

Formation & geological history

Forms when silica-rich fluids cement fine-grained volcanic or sedimentary material, with iron oxides producing the red-orange coloration; deposits are generally ancient, commonly Paleozoic or older. Exact locality cannot be determined from the photograph.

Uses & applications

Used as ornamental stone, cabochons, beads, carvings, and tumbled specimens; occasionally used for decorative tile and small art objects.

Geological facts

Jasper is an opaque variety of chalcedony or microcrystalline quartz, unlike translucent agate. Red coloration typically comes from hematite or other iron oxides.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its opaque fine grain, strong polish, hardness, and irregular iron-red pattern; it should resist scratching by a steel knife. Common sources include Australia, Madagascar, South Africa, Brazil, and the western United States.