mineral

Polished jasper pebble

Jasper, microcrystalline quartz (SiO₂) with iron-oxide impurities

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Opaque brown to reddish-brown, fine-grained, waxy-to-glassy luster, no visible crystals or cleavage; Mohs hardness 6.5–7 and specific gravity about 2.55–2.70. The smooth oval form indicates tumbling or polishing.

Identified August 28, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Jasper forms when silica-rich fluids replace or cement volcanic or sedimentary material, with iron oxides producing the brown-red colors. Individual specimens may range from Precambrian to much younger, depending on the host deposit.

Uses & applications

Used for cabochons, beads, carvings, worry stones, and decorative objects; also collected as an ornamental variety of quartz. Common polished pieces typically have modest value.

Geological facts

Jasper is technically an opaque variety of chalcedony or microcrystalline quartz. Color and pattern names such as picture, ocean, mookaite, or red jasper usually describe appearance or locality rather than separate minerals.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by its opaque, compact texture, lack of cleavage, strong resistance to scratching, and possible red-brown iron staining; it should not scratch easily with a steel knife. Common sources include India, Brazil, Madagascar, Australia, Mexico, and the western United States.