igneous
Polished leopard jasper (likely rhyolite jasper)
Silicified, microcrystalline quartz-rich rhyolite; chiefly SiO₂ with iron-oxide inclusions
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness about 6.5–7 Mohs; opaque cream, brown, reddish, and gray patterning; vitreous to waxy luster; dense, fine-grained, with no visible cleavage. The rounded form is polished/tumbled.
Identified More igneous →
Explore Polished leopard jasper (likely rhyolite jasper) in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs; opaque cream, brown, reddish, and gray patterning; vitreous to waxy luster; dense, fine-grained, with no visible cleavage. The rounded form is polished/tumbled.
Formation & geological history
Formed from silica-rich volcanic lava or ash later altered and replaced by chalcedony and quartz, with iron and manganese producing the spots and bands; generally Cenozoic or older, depending on locality.
Uses & applications
Used for cabochons, beads, carvings, worry stones, and ornamental objects; not normally used as a structural stone.
Geological facts
“Leopard jasper” is a trade name rather than a single precisely defined mineral species; similar patterns may be sold as leopard skin jasper or orbicular jasper.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its opaque, multicolored orbicular or mottled pattern, high polish, and lack of glassy transparency; common sources include Mexico, Madagascar, Brazil, and the western United States.
