gemstone

Polished brecciated jasper

Brecciated jasper, an opaque microcrystalline quartz variety (SiO₂) with iron-oxide and other mineral fragments

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Typically Mohs 6.5–7, opaque, with a glassy-to-waxy luster and red-brown matrix enclosing angular pale and dark fragments. It has no visible cleavage, cryptocrystalline quartz structure, and specific gravity around 2.6.

Identified September 12, 2026More gemstone →

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

At a glance

Common name: Polished brecciated jasper
Scientific name: Brecciated jasper, an opaque microcrystalline quartz variety (SiO₂) with iron-oxide and other mineral fragments
Category: gemstone
Identified: September 12, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $5–$25 for a small commercial cabochon; $25–$100+ for unusually attractive, large, or locality-documented pieces.

Not an official valuation

AI estimate for general interest only — not an appraisal. Actual value depends on condition, provenance, and market demand. Verify with a professional before buying, selling, or insuring.

This identification was generated by AI and may contain errors. Verify important details before relying on them — and never use an AI result to judge whether a specimen is safe to handle. Read the full disclaimer

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms when silica-rich fluids cement and replace fragments of previously fractured volcanic or sedimentary rock; iron oxides produce the red-brown colors. It may occur in rocks of many ages, commonly in volcanic terranes.

Uses & applications

Used for cabochons, carvings, beads, polished tiles, and ornamental objects; generally valued as a decorative lapidary stone rather than for industrial use.

Geological facts

The angular clasts and contrasting matrix are characteristic of brecciation, distinguishing it from more smoothly banded agate. Exact naming may vary depending on the source locality and mineral inclusions.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by its opaque reddish matrix, angular inclusions, strong polish, and inability to scratch with a steel knife; quartz should scratch ordinary glass. Common sources include Oregon, Utah, California, Australia, and Mexico.