mineral

Polished brown jasper pebble

Microcrystalline quartz (SiO₂), commonly iron-oxide-rich jasper

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs; opaque reddish-brown to dark brown, fine-grained, waxy to vitreous luster, with no visible cleavage and conchoidal fracture. The smooth shape and shine indicate tumbling or polishing.

Identified September 4, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Jasper forms when silica-rich fluids replace or cement fine sediments, often incorporating hematite or goethite that produces the brown-red color; deposits range from Precambrian to recent. This specimen is likely a naturally rounded pebble that has been polished.

Uses & applications

Used for cabochons, beads, carvings, decorative objects, and lapidary collections; it has little industrial value in small pieces.

Geological facts

Jasper is a variety of opaque chalcedony and microcrystalline quartz, not a single mineral species. Iron content commonly creates red, yellow, brown, or green patterns.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by its opaque uniform color, very fine texture, glassy/waxy polish, and inability to scratch with a steel knife easily; common sources include Brazil, India, Madagascar, Australia, and the western United States. Exact locality cannot be determined from the image.