mineral
Polished brown jasper pebble
Microcrystalline quartz (SiO₂), commonly iron-oxide-rich jasper
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness 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.
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Physical properties
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.
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.
