gemstone

Polished jasper, likely brecciated or ocean jasper

Microcrystalline quartz (SiO₂), with iron-oxide and other mineral impurities

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs; opaque, rounded and polished, with earthy red-brown, green, gray, and cream coloration. Waxy to vitreous luster; no visible cleavage; cryptocrystalline quartz structure and typical specific gravity near 2.6.

Identified August 31, 2026More gemstone →

Explore Polished jasper, likely brecciated or ocean jasper in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Jasper forms when silica-rich fluids replace or cement volcanic ash, sediments, or breccia, with iron oxides producing red and brown tones. Most jasper is Paleozoic to Cenozoic in age, though its exact age and locality cannot be determined from the image.

Uses & applications

Used for cabochons, beads, carvings, polished stones, and decorative objects; rarely used as aggregate or ornamental building stone.

Geological facts

The specimen’s rounded shape and glossy surface indicate tumbling or polishing. The mottled colors are consistent with jasper, but an exact variety cannot be confirmed visually.

Field identification & locations

Identify jasper by its opacity, fine-grained texture, lack of cleavage, and inability to scratch it with a steel knife easily; quartz or glass should scratch it. Common sources include Madagascar, India, Brazil, Mexico, Australia, and the western United States.