mineral

Polished brown jasper (probable picture jasper)

Microcrystalline quartz/chalcedony, SiO₂, with iron-oxide inclusions

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs; opaque brown with black and golden mottling, vitreous-to-waxy luster, cryptocrystalline quartz structure, and no visible cleavage. The rounded, glossy surface indicates a tumbled specimen.

Identified September 17, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Jasper forms when silica-rich groundwater replaces or fills volcanic and sedimentary material, with iron oxides producing the brown coloration; individual pieces commonly formed millions to hundreds of millions of years ago. Exact age and locality cannot be determined from the image.

Uses & applications

Used for cabochons, beads, carvings, decorative objects, and lapidary collections; its value is primarily ornamental rather than industrial.

Geological facts

Jasper is a variety of opaque chalcedony and may contain hematite, goethite, clay, or other mineral inclusions. “Picture jasper” is a descriptive trade name for specimens with landscape-like patterns.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its opacity, fine-grained texture, brown iron-rich patterns, glassy polish, and inability to scratch with a copper coin; quartz should scratch glass. Common sources include Oregon, Idaho, Utah, Arizona, Madagascar, and Australia.