mineral

Polished jasper

Jasper, an opaque, microcrystalline variety of quartz (SiO₂), colored mainly by iron oxides

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs; opaque reddish-brown with tan patches and a polished, waxy-to-glassy luster. Microcrystalline quartz; no visible cleavage and conchoidal fracture when broken.

Identified October 14, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs; opaque reddish-brown with tan patches and a polished, waxy-to-glassy luster. Microcrystalline quartz; no visible cleavage and conchoidal fracture when broken.

Formation & geological history

Forms when silica-rich fluids fill cavities or replace material in sedimentary and volcanic rocks; iron impurities create its colors. Jasper deposits span many geological ages.

Uses & applications

Used for beads, cabochons, carvings, ornaments, and small decorative objects; rarely used as an industrial silica source.

Geological facts

Jasper is a trade name for patterned, opaque chalcedony, and its appearance varies widely with mineral impurities and depositional conditions.

Field identification & locations

The specimen’s opaque, mottled red-brown coloring and smooth polish fit jasper, though image identification cannot confirm composition. Common sources include India, Brazil, Madagascar, Australia, and the western United States.