mineral

Polished jasper pebble, likely mookaite or brecciated jasper

Microcrystalline quartz (chalcedony), SiO₂, with iron-oxide inclusions

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs; glossy vitreous-to-waxy luster; opaque burgundy, brown, cream, and black coloration with irregular banding or brecciation. It has no visible cleavage and a dense, fine-grained cryptocrystalline structure.

Identified August 31, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms when silica-rich groundwater cements or replaces volcanic sediment, commonly incorporating iron oxides and other minerals; individual jasper deposits range from Paleozoic to Cenozoic in age. The rounded shape and polish indicate human processing, likely tumbling.

Uses & applications

Used for cabochons, beads, carvings, decorative objects, and lapidary collections; it is generally ornamental rather than industrial.

Geological facts

Jasper is a variety of chalcedony and is often classified by locality or pattern rather than strict mineral chemistry. Cream-colored patches may be quartz-rich areas, while red-brown tones commonly reflect hematite or goethite.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by its opaque patterned body, glassy polish, lack of cleavage, and resistance to scratching; it should scratch glass but not be scratched by a steel knife. Common sources include Australia, Madagascar, Brazil, India, and the western United States.