metamorphic

Polished brecciated jasper

Jasper, microcrystalline quartz (SiO₂), commonly iron-oxide and clay-rich

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Opaque, multicolored red, yellow, green, black, and cream fragments in a polished breccia pattern; vitreous to waxy luster, cryptocrystalline structure, no visible cleavage, Mohs hardness about 6.5–7, specific gravity approximately 2.5–2.7.

Identified September 17, 2026More metamorphic →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Silica-rich fluids cemented and replaced fractured volcanic or sedimentary material, with iron and other impurities producing the colors; the exact geological age and locality cannot be determined from the image.

Uses & applications

Used for cabochons, beads, carvings, ornamental objects, and decorative stone; valued mainly as an attractive lapidary material.

Geological facts

Jasper is a variety of opaque chalcedony or microcrystalline quartz. Brecciation creates the angular color patches, while red coloration typically comes from hematite or related iron oxides.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by its opaque appearance, hardness, lack of cleavage, and colorful angular patterns; it will scratch glass but not be scratched by a steel knife. Similar material occurs worldwide, notably in the western United States, Australia, Madagascar, and India.