metamorphic

Polished brecciated jasper

Microcrystalline quartz (SiO₂), commonly with hematite/goethite and iron-rich alteration minerals

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs; opaque brown, cream, and red with a glassy-to-waxy polish and no visible cleavage. The red area likely reflects iron-oxide-rich jasper or a breccia fragment cemented by silica.

Identified September 15, 2026More metamorphic →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms when silica-rich fluids replace or cement volcanic or sedimentary fragments, with iron oxides producing the red-brown colors; exact age and locality cannot be determined visually. Common sources include Australia, Madagascar, Brazil, India, and the western United States.

Uses & applications

Used for cabochons, beads, carvings, and decorative polished stones; occasionally used as ornamental facing material. Typical value is mainly aesthetic and depends on pattern and polish.

Geological facts

The specimen appears tumbled or carved and polished, so its natural texture has been modified. Jasper is a dense variety of chert distinguished by abundant impurities and opaque coloration.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by its opaque mottled pattern, iron-red inclusions, silica-like hardness, and inability to scratch it with a steel knife; glass is usually scratched by quartz. Exact identification would benefit from locality, streak, and hardness testing.