mineral

Polished brecciated jasper

Brecciated chalcedony/quartz aggregate, chiefly SiO₂ with iron-oxide inclusions

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs; opaque to slightly translucent, reddish-brown, cream, and orange, with a glassy to waxy luster and irregular angular color fragments cemented by silica. Quartz has no cleavage and conchoidal fracture; specific gravity is approximately 2.6.

Identified August 29, 2026More mineral →

Explore Polished brecciated jasper in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

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

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Silica-rich groundwater filled and cemented fractures in older volcanic or sedimentary rock, while iron oxides produced the red-orange colors. The exact geological age and locality cannot be determined from the photograph.

Uses & applications

Used for cabochons, beads, carvings, and decorative objects; generally an inexpensive lapidary stone rather than a fine gemstone.

Geological facts

“Brecciated jasper” describes the texture, not one single mineral species; patterns vary greatly because fragments may be jasper, chalcedony, or quartz-rich rock.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by its opaque silica body, angular reddish fragments, hardness, and lack of metallic sparkle or cleavage; a steel file should not easily scratch it. Common sources include India, Madagascar, Brazil, and the western United States.