mineral

Polished brecciated jasper

Jasper, opaque microcrystalline quartz (SiO₂), likely brecciated jasper with iron-oxide and dark silicate inclusions

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs; orange-red, gray-blue, black, and yellow patches; opaque, glassy to waxy luster; cryptocrystalline quartz with no cleavage, conchoidal fracture, and specific gravity around 2.6.

Identified August 11, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms when silica-rich groundwater cements and replaces sedimentary or volcanic material, commonly preserving angular fragments in a breccia. Its exact geological age cannot be determined from the photograph and depends on the deposit.

Uses & applications

Commonly cut and polished for cabochons, beads, carvings, and display specimens; durable but generally not a high-value gemstone.

Geological facts

The contrasting pattern is natural brecciation and mineral staining rather than crystal zoning. Orange colors typically reflect hematite or other iron oxides, while blue-gray areas may be silica or associated silicate minerals.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its opaque multicolor pattern, very fine texture, glassy polish, and inability to scratch with a steel knife; quartz or glass should scratch it. Similar material occurs worldwide, including Oregon, Idaho, Madagascar, India, and Australia.