mineral

Polished brecciated jasper

Jasper, an opaque microcrystalline variety of quartz (SiO₂), with iron-oxide coloring

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs; orange-red and cream, opaque, with a waxy to vitreous polish. The irregular color bands suggest fractured material cemented by silica; crystal grains are too fine to see.

Identified October 13, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs; orange-red and cream, opaque, with a waxy to vitreous polish. The irregular color bands suggest fractured material cemented by silica; crystal grains are too fine to see.

Formation & geological history

Silica-rich fluids filled and cemented fractures in older rock, while iron oxides produced the red-orange color. Jasper forms in many geological settings and can range widely in age.

Uses & applications

Used for beads, cabochons, carvings, and decorative objects; this small specimen is mainly suitable for collecting.

Geological facts

Jasper is microcrystalline quartz, so its crystals are generally invisible without magnification.

Field identification & locations

Look for opaque, fine-grained material with strong red, orange, or cream patterns and no visible cleavage; hardness and streak tests can help distinguish it from softer look-alikes. Jasper occurs worldwide, including in the United States, India, Madagascar, and Australia.